MIST Speak-Off Competition To Be Held On June 26

The Ministry of Innovation, Industry, Science, and Technology (MIST) will once again host its premier secondary school science and technology speak-off competition on Friday, June 26, beginning at 9:30 a.m. It will be held at the Tom Adams Financial Centre, Courtney Blackman Grande Salle, Central Bank, Spry Street, Bridgetown.

Barbados’ budding young scientists from eight secondary schools are eager to showcase their oratorical skills and vie for the MIST Challenge trophy.

The competition, which forms part of the MIST annual Science and Technology Festival, will stand alone this year, as the festival is expected to be held later in 2026. 

The speak-off will comprise two sessions. The first part of the showcase features a prepared piece by two students from each team, whereas the second segment is impromptu, with each student having two minutes to discuss a topic not previously assigned to them. The second half is genuinely challenging, and it is here that innovative thought takes over.

The Ministry has hosted the competition for several years, with the aim of developing students’ presentation skills and providing them with an opportunity to present to a live audience. 

During the preparation process for the event, students develop a range of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and research skills. What is especially impactful is the focus on topical issues within science and technology that address moral and ethical concerns impacting humanity and the environment. 

The schools competing in this year’s competition are reigning champions Coleridge and Parry School, The St. Michael School, Princess Margaret Secondary, The Lodge School, Harrison College, Combermere School, the Christ Church Foundation School, and newcomers Springer Memorial School. (PR/GIS)