A project exploring the potential use of soaked banana peels in crop production earned Roseau Combined School first place at the third Agri-Innovation Competition organised by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) Delegation in Saint Lucia.
The competition was held in Odsan, Castries, as part of the Ministry of Agriculture’s World Food Day activities, under the theme “Empowering Young Minds in Creating Sustainable Agri-Solutions”.
It showcased primary school students’ ideas for addressing agricultural challenges, including waste reduction, food security, sustainable farming and climate resilience.
Roseau Combined’s project, Banana Peel Miracle Irrigation Liquid, explores the potential use of liquid derived from soaked banana peels as a fertiliser or irrigation input.
The school received a trophy and four smartwatches.
Ciceron Combined School placed second with AgroS758, a technology-based concept aimed at directing agricultural waste and surplus produce towards productive uses.
The prize was a trophy and an eco-tour at Hotel Chocolat.
Odsan Combined School secured third place with Cocoweed Shield, a concept involving the use of discarded coconut husks and invasive weeds to create a biodegradable mat designed to suppress weeds, conserve water and support crop growth.
The school received a trophy.
Anse La Raye Primary School also participated in the competition.
All participating schools received garden supplies, including seeds, tools and agricultural inputs, to encourage continued practical learning and engagement in agriculture.
IICA acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Agriculture, Hotel Chocolat, Massy Stores St Lucia Limited, the Taiwan Technical Mission and the Saint Lucia Conservation Fund in making the competition possible.
