Junior Scientist Programme Explores Salt Ponds

~~Adz:Left~~Roadtown; Tortola: Wednesday, August 13 – The Department of Youth Affairs and Sports (DYAS) and the Youth Empowerment Programme (YEP) teamed up to educate our youth on the importance of the Territory’s salt ponds.

Between July 28th and August 1st DYAS and YEP re-introduced its Junior Scientist Programme which started four years ago. According to Assistant Director of Youth in the DYAS, Ms. Persia Evelyn, this one week project was an opportunity for young people to be submerged in a real life and practical approach to Ecology and Marine Science.

The group visited various salt ponds in the BVI, and obtained measurements on levels of salinity, oxygen and noted the overall habitat of these ponds. It is envisioned that this program will become a catalyst that sparks a lifetime interest in science among its participants.

The week’s activities were highlighted by visits to Salt Ponds on Tortola, namely Josiah Bay and Long Bay. The Jarecki Family Foundation (JFF) facilitated trips to Norman Island and Guana Island where the group observed the salt ponds on both islands and participated in hikes. The JFF has been a sponsor of this project since its inception.

“We are thrilled by the results of this year’s effort. To see young people showing real life connections of concepts taught in our schools and realizing the significance of science, made all the difference” said Program Coordinator, Mr Japheth Gordon. 

Executive Director of YEP, Mr. Stacy Mather was also delighted with the programme and added, “YEP is grateful for the productive partnership we have forged with DYAS. It is mutually beneficial for the Government agencies and the private sector to collaborate.”

A second instalment of this program is tentatively scheduled for December 2008. Please contact Persia Evelyn at DYAS at 494-6860 for more information.