Science in the Perspective of Artists: PISQian Artists Compete in Qatar Foundation’s “Science for A Change” Poster Competition

 Writer: Keziah Janelle C. Landicho

Date: May 13, 2021

Venue: Virtual, Zoom

Two of PISQ’s very own students, Janeal Anne M. Agustin of 12 STEM B and Marcus Wein E. Montero of 11 STEM D participated in “Science for A Change” Poster Competition hosted by the Qatar Foundation. The two teamed up and created a poster titled, “The Renewable Energy Source of The Century: Innovation of Sand in CSP”. On May 13, 2021, these students were given an opportunity to take the virtual stage and present their poster to the judges of Qatar Foundation. Both Monteiro and Agustin were coached by Mrs. Judileine Dabin, a Senior High School Science teacher and Mr. Jherome De Guzman, a Junior High School MAPEH teacher.

This poster competition was open to all schools in Qatar under the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE). The competition’s aim was to promote innovative and creative ideas by utilizing students’ creativity, imagination, and develop problem-solving skills. Qatar Foundation Research, Development, and Innovation (QF RDI) promotes research activities among participating students to enhance their exploration skills and encourage the students to apply research methods for the resolution of the challenges identified.

At first, Janeal Anne described the experience as nerve-wracking. Not only did they have to prepare an oral presentation to discuss their digital poster but they also had to face the Questions and Answers portion. Intimidation was one of their greatest enemy, nevertheless, the duo focused on delivering an insightful presentation and amazed the board of judges. "It was truly a great experience since it was an honor for us to have our idea recognized by others and have the opportunity to listen to other great minds as well,” Marcus added. This competition has allowed students to ponder on the world of Science and how, through research, can impact our future. 

For the awarding, the three winning groups or the six students will be sponsored by QF RDI and Hamad Bin Khalifa University Research to attend the 62nd London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF) in the UK on the 28th of July - 11th of August 2021 (airfare, registration and accommodation only). Two groups will win Gift Certificates, and the finalists will receive their respective Certificates of Appreciation.

Despite the ongoing pandemic, PISQian students never fail to rise up to a new challenge and face our world with a new perspective. There is beauty hidden within the logic and reasoning of Science, and the talents of Agustin and Monteiro simply justifies that. As students, there are more lessons that we have to learn outside the pages of our Science text books and we must not let it hinder our creative expression, in fact, we must alway view Science in a new perspective - the perspective of an artist.