A science fair hosted by the Marist Brothers Primary School last Friday has been described as an overwhelming success by the head of the school’s science department.

The science fair was held in the school hall at Mulivai for students from Year 1–8 who participated based on what they learnt in their science classes.

According to the head of the school’s science department, Lui Malaki, the science fair was an overwhelming success as it attracted student participants whom he didn’t expect to see.

He said they had many wonderful ideas for their science projects which they were able to showcase at their annual science fair program.

"I have seen so much potential in some of the students whom I never really thought had this kind of creative mind,” Mr Malaki told the Samoa Observer.

“It was surprising to see these kids think outside of the box and do something different.

"With the science program this year, this is a great opportunity for the kids to be away from the blackboards, books, and pens for a short while and use their imagination and create projects in which they can do. 

“So far I have witnessed so many talents today from our students, not only the students but also the support from their parents is just overwhelming."

Mr Malaki says that one of the science projects done by one of the classes in Year 2 was the manufacturing of a “tuiga” using waste products.

"It's so good and brings joy to see the kids do something extraordinary and out of the blue,” he said. 

“One of the classes created a product out of waste products. 

“I have seen quite so many students finding interest in science which is a good sign. 

“It's nice to see their brains working and creating different projects which they are learning in their classroom."

A participating student, Olsen Lemisio, told the Samoa Observer of his project based on the solar system wherein he used cardboard to show the different planets in the solar system.

"We were not allowed to have two projects of the same topic, that's why I chose the solar system, as you can see on this cardboard, the planets, they are called mercury, venus, earth, mars, jupiter, saturn, uranus, neptune and pluto,” he said in an interview.

“The solar system is important to our planet because we can use it for electricity, solar cooling and others.”

Mr Lemisio then thanked his grandmother for assisting with his project and said he hopes to make her proud with his science fair project.

"My Nana was the one who helped me put together my project because my parents are busy with their work,” he said with a smile.

“I want to make her proud with my science fair. Science is fun and I am very happy about today's event.”