The first round of the 2026 UWI Physics Olympiad was successfully held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Department of Physics in the Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, Mona. The competition brought together forty-eight students from eleven high schools across Jamaica, all eager to demonstrate their knowledge and problem-solving skills in physics.
Participants completed a timed two-hour theory examination designed to test their understanding of fundamental physics concepts and analytical abilities. Teachers and parents were also in attendance, providing encouragement and support to the students throughout the day.
The event began with welcoming remarks from the competition coordinator, Karlus Redway, who outlined the objectives of the Olympiad and encouraged students to approach the challenge with curiosity and confidence. This was followed by a brief but inspiring address from Savanna Lloyd, who urged participants to think broadly about the role of physics in addressing real-world problems. She also shared insights on career opportunities in the field and emphasised the growing importance of women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Students who performed at the highest level in this initial stage will advance to the Final Round, scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026. The final phase will feature a hands-on experimental challenge, allowing competitors to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical laboratory setting.
The successful execution of the event was made possible through the dedication of staff members Nekishea Burke, Samantha Whytehead, Wesley Clarke, Jayaka Campbell, and Alexandra De Freitas, along with the invaluable support of student volunteers Dominic Collins, Andrew Smart, Danielle Smart, and Nathan Gordon.
With the theory round now completed, anticipation is building for the experimental final, where the top-performing students will return to campus to demonstrate their practical laboratory skills. The competition continues to highlight the Department of Physics’ commitment to engaging secondary school students and creating opportunities for them to experience physics within a university environment.
