The Department of Environment has initiated a project titled “Innovative
Technologies for improved water availability to increase food security in Antigua
and Barbuda” (AFSIG Project).
The project aims to improve food security in Antigua and Barbuda by facilitating
the availability and use of ground or surface water for agricultural purposes via
innovative technologies. To foster the younger generation’s interest in education
about climate change and the environment, as well as to empower youth to help the
country achieve climate solutions, the DOE’s AFSIG project is hosting a Student
Innovate Competition through which a Call for Proposals (CFP) has been issued to
students to pitch innovative technologies and approaches for the agricultural sector.
Individual students or groups of students (aged 12 – 21 and currently enrolled in a
secondary or tertiary school in Antigua and Barbuda) are invited to submit a
research essay to present an innovative technology or approach that has the
potential to help the agricultural sector become more resilient to climate change by
tackling one of four (4) water supply challenges facing farmers (see Competition
Guidelines).
Suggestions for proposals include, but are not limited to:
1. Ecosystems-based adaptation
2. New inventions
3. Digital technologies
4. Best and successful practices outside of Antigua and Barbuda
Authors of shortlisted submissions will pitch their innovative technology or
approach via a brief oral presentation to a panel of judges at the DOE’s annual
Arbour Day event on November 30, 2023. The competition will be divided into
two categories: (1) tertiary and (2) secondary schools. The student(s) with the best
pitch for each category will receive a cash prize for their respective school. The
best overall submission between the two categories will be tested as a demo and
students will be invited to participate in the demonstration.
Deadline for proposal submission: November 25, 2023
