Brazilian Students Showcase Innovation in Regional Science and Technology Fairs

In a vibrant display of scientific advancement, approximately 1,375 student projects are being presented across science and technology fairs in ten cities of Mato Grosso do Sul. These fairs, part of a 16-year tradition organized by the Instituto Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (IFMS) as a segment of the Science and Technology Week, run from late September through October 24, fostering scientific learning among public and private elementary, high school, and technical students. The 2026 theme, ‘Ciência Delas,’ shines a spotlight on women’s contributions to science and technology, promoting inclusivity in STEM fields.

Simultaneously, in São Paulo, students from Etec Polivalente de Americana achieved acclaim for their innovative Zenith platform, which won the Digital Transformation category at the 8th FeNaDANTE Science Fair. Zenith utilizes artificial intelligence, computer vision, and drone imagery to monitor soybean crops, detect pests and diseases early, and support precision agriculture. The project, authored by a team of four students and guided by professors Wesley Otto Garcia Utsunomiya and Ester de Souza Menezes, aims to democratize access to advanced agricultural tools and has already completed technical laboratory validations.

Angelo César de Lourenço, IFMS’s director of Research and Graduate Studies, highlighted the fairs’ role in enhancing scientific dissemination and connecting the academic community with society. Meanwhile, the Zenith team plans field tests in the upcoming crop season, marking a key step toward real-world application of their technology.

These events collectively underline Brazil’s youthful engagement with science and technology, showcasing grassroots innovation and a growing commitment to fostering STEM talents across diverse regions and demographics.