🌱 National Science Week 2026
Faculty of Agriculture Showcases STEM Innovation
Theme: "STEM: Exploring, Innovating and Inspiring"
The 10th edition of National Science Week (NSW) 2026 officially opened at the Côte d'Or National Sports Complex, bringing together over 40 stakeholders to showcase the practical applications of science and technology across various sectors.
Under the inspiring theme "STEM: Exploring, Innovating and Inspiring," the event provided a national platform for students and researchers to demonstrate how scientific inquiry drives development in Mauritius. Students from the Faculty of Agriculture proudly exhibited their cutting-edge research projects, highlighting the vital role of agricultural sciences in the broader STEM ecosystem.
🔬 Featured Student Research Projects from the Faculty of Agriculture
Antioxidant Potential & Food Safety of Edible Seaweeds
Investigates the nutritional value and safety of seven local edible seaweed species from a nutrient-enriched lagoonal aquaculture system. The study evaluates antioxidant potential (Vitamin C, flavonoids, chlorophyll) and conducts heavy metal risk assessments to highlight their potential in supporting Mauritius' blue economy.
Functional Plant-Based Beverage with Prebiotics & Probiotics
Focuses on creating a healthy, locally produced synbiotic beverage using ingredients like Granny Smith apples, moringa, beetroot, aloe vera, and stevia. The project successfully formulated a stable, microbiologically safe product with strong consumer acceptability and shelf-life stability.
Using Hydrogen Peroxide to Keep Fruits & Vegetables Safe
Explores food-grade hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) as a sustainable sanitizer to extend shelf life and reduce postharvest losses. Demonstrates that 1% H₂O₂ treatment reduces microbial contamination in carrots while maintaining quality, proposing strategies to foster public confidence.
Water Kefir: The Low-Sugar, Probiotic Powerhouse
Explores the two-stage fermentation process to produce water kefir, a vegan and dairy-free probiotic drink. Highlights functional benefits such as metabolic support, gut microbiome balance, and antioxidant properties as a healthier alternative to high-sugar commercial juices.
🌟 A Spark for the Future: Why Exhibitions Like This Matter
While the booths at National Science Week 2026 may soon be packed away, the true impact of this exhibition extends far beyond the event itself. Events like these are not merely showcases of current research—they are vital starting points to ignite curiosity, demystify complex scientific concepts, and inspire the next generation of Mauritian innovators.
By bringing hands-on, locally relevant STEM projects directly to young visitors, we hope to spark a lifelong interest in science, technology, engineering, and agriculture. The Faculty of Agriculture remains deeply committed to nurturing young talent, fostering inquiry-based learning, and ensuring that today's curious minds become tomorrow's problem-solvers.
The journey of scientific discovery begins with a single spark of interest. Through exhibitions like NSW 2026, we are proud to help light that flame—and watch it grow into a lifelong passion for science.
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