Student Energy Program International!

We are proud to introduce the Student Energy Program at the Scholengemeenschap Bonaire. Five Ecoplants have recently been installed there and form the core of an inspiring curriculum that focuses on technology, sustainability and solar energy.

Under the guidance of Elton Johnson and Joshua Clarinda from Sterk Techniekonderwijs, students built their own Ecoplant: sustainable power for bicycles and mobile devices via USB and power outlets, as well as a nice shaded spot in the schoolyard.

“The students loved it, participated enthusiastically, and after two days, the first ECOPLANT on Bonaire was a reality. It has been given a nice spot at the main entrance of our school. The other four plants will be placed at the separate units of the school community,” said Elton Johnson, Program Manager STO BES region.

Meanwhile, State Secretary Zsolt Szabó has already visited the Ecoplant and the device is being put to good use! Want to know more about the project? And curious about SG Bonaire’s entire experience? Read about it below!

Reference Elton Johnson Program Manager STO BES region
Every year, as program manager for technical education in the BES region, I travel to the Netherlands for the annual STO day. It’s a chance to brainstorm and get inspired with fellow program managers and other stakeholders who are passionate about technical education.

That’s how I met Rufus last November. We quickly struck up a conversation, exchanged contact details, and agreed to stay in touch.

I immediately saw the possibilities for us on Bonaire, as we have plenty of sunshine. Not only that, but the ECOPLANT meets the criteria that STO Caribbean Netherlands values: sustainable, high quality, aesthetically pleasing, and applicable within our education system.

After convincing the school management, we proceeded to purchase five units. After arranging the payment and logistics, the shipment arrived safely on our island in April. Not only did the shipment arrive safely, but so did Rufus and Hans, whom I had the pleasure of welcoming to Bonaire last May, as is tradition.

After meeting colleagues and students, we immediately started building the first plant under the guidance of Rufus and Hans. The students loved it, participated enthusiastically, and after two days, the first ECOPLANT on Bonaire was a reality. It has been given a nice spot at the main entrance of our school. The other four plants will be placed in the separate units of the school community.

Thanks to the students, the supporting teachers, Rufus, and Hans for this wonderful result.