The next generation of scientists took centre stage at sCYence Fair 2026, as pupils from across Cyprus gathered at the Cyprus Institute on 30 April for the country’s largest science festival.
A total of 70 teams from primary schools, lower secondary schools and upper secondary schools presented imaginative and innovative projects to the public, competing for top honours in the annual School Science Competition. The festival showcased scientific curiosity and creativity, drawing strong interest from schools, families and researchers alike.
The day-long event featured a rich and diverse programme, including live experiments, interactive and hands-on activities, engaging presentations and demonstrations of new discoveries. Organisers said the festival once again highlighted science as an accessible and exciting experience, reinforcing the message that learning can be both educational and enjoyable.
In the primary school category, Paphos Primary School Iordanio won first prize for its project “The Smart Plant Pot”, followed by the Second Primary School of Kokkinochoria with “Sea Cleaner”, and Dasoupoli Primary School (K.B.) with “Time2Fresh”.
At lower secondary level, the American International School of Cyprus secured first place with “Biomechanical Knee Energy Harvester”. Lighthouse Private School came second with “Tech for Nature: Smart Greenhouse for a Sustainable Future”, while Trinity Private School placed third with “Dangerous Sand”.
The top prize in the upper secondary category went to Kykkos Lyceum B for its project “Echokick”. Foley’s School followed in second place with “Going Bananas for Bioplastic”, while Ethnomartyr Kyprianos Lyceum took third place with “IQ Garage”.
The festival also featured an art competition, with prizes awarded across all age groups. Winning entries included works made from used toys, mixed media constructions, ecological clothing and science-inspired visual pieces.
Chief Scientist of the Republic of Cyprus Demetris Skourides officially opened the festival, in the presence of Cyprus Institute President Dr Stavros Malas, representatives of the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth and the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, as well as ambassadors from European Union member states.
As part of sCYence Fair 2026, visitors were also able to explore the Interactive Science Exhibition and engage directly with researchers from the Cyprus Institute, who presented their latest research and innovative ideas. Several embassies participated with their own interactive stands, adding to what organisers described as the dynamic, international character of the event.