Three schools will take part in an Aerial Robotics Workshop and Challenge hosted by the Lions Club of Tortola in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, and DRIFT Enterprises Ltd. Photo: Facebook/ Lions Club of Tortola

According to a facebook post, “The sessions will demonstrate how coding, sensors, and autonomous navigation work together in modern drone systems. These workshops will make coding and sensor-based navigation tangible and accessible, showcasing how these skills translate into real-world drone applications across the Caribbean.” Photo: Facebook/ Lions Club of Tortola

The initiative will involve a series of half-day aerial robotics workshops held at Elmore Stoutt High School, Cedar International School, and Bregado Flax Educational Center from Monday, March 16 to Thursday, March 19, 2026. The workshops will culminate in an Aerial Robotics Challenge and Drone Soccer Demonstration at the Multipurpose Sports Complex on Friday, March 20th, as part of the annual National Science Fair.

Partnership with DRIFT Enterprises

“As Lions, our mission has always been to serve our communities and invest in the future of our youth. Partnering with DRIFT Enterprises to bring aerial robotics and STEAM learning into our schools is an exciting opportunity to broaden what young people in the Virgin Islands believe is possible for their future,” stated Lion Faith L. Dawson, MJF, the Club President.

President Dawson further explained, “When students see technology up close and realise that these industries are within their reach, it can change the way they think about their education and their potential. Partnerships like this allow us to connect global expertise with local opportunity. The DRIFT Team has generously donated their services, including the planning and execution of the workshops and challenges, as well as the use of their specialised equipment to make this initiative possible.”

Meanwhile, Mr Dervon A. McKellop, President of DRIFT Enterprises, said, “We believe that the Caribbean must not only consume technology but create it. By introducing students to aerial robotics at an early age, we are helping to build the next generation of innovators, engineers, and digital leaders. DRIFT is committed to ensuring that our youth have the skills, exposure, and confidence to compete globally while solving problems right here at home. DRIFT Enterprises is here to show students what’s possible when Caribbean talent meets cutting‑edge tech.”

Mr McKellop and his technical team will guide students through the fundamentals of drone flight and aerodynamics, with a strong focus on safety, responsible operation, and practical learning.

Various sessions focused on modern drone systems

According to a Facebook post, “The sessions will demonstrate how coding, sensors, and autonomous navigation work together in modern drone systems. These workshops will make coding and sensor-based navigation tangible and accessible, showcasing how these skills translate into real-world drone applications across the Caribbean.”

Students will also be introduced to the expanding career landscape in the drone industry, robotics, Information Communication and Technology (ICT), engineering, and data-driven industries—fields where Caribbean talent is increasingly in demand. 

The statement added, “Each member of the winning team will receive an educational drone, allowing them to continue developing their skills in drone coding, flight control, and robotics experimentation. The winning school will also receive an educational drone with battery accessories, providing a resource that can be utilised for future classroom demonstrations, robotics clubs, and STEM activities, thereby extending the impact of the competition beyond the individual participants.”