Grand opening of the renovated Maria Convent building, a hub for STEM education

This historic occasion marks the culmination of a collaborative effort to create a vibrant center for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in Aruba.

The €7.3 million project, funded by the European Union, transformed the 2,000-square-meter Maria Convent building into a state-of-the-art educational facility. The renovated building now features four dedicated classrooms, two server rooms, a well-equipped library, an aula (auditorium), five dedicated study rooms, office space for 30 staff members, and a computer lab outfitted with ICT equipment for 40 students.

Prime Minister of Aruba, Mrs. Evelyn Wever-Croes, expressed her gratitude for the project completion and what it means for Aruba.." 

Mr. Rene Van Nes, EU Ambassador, stated that he is happy that the EU has contributed to giving young Arubans the opportunity to receive a highly relevant quality education at home, here on the beautiful island of Aruba."

The UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Ugo Blanco, stated that the program is proud to support initiatives that preserve cultural heritage and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.

The Maria Convent renovation prioritizes sustainability by incorporating features that minimize environmental impact. It includes a smart climate control system that optimizes energy efficiency, enhanced roof insulation to reduce energy consumption, smart lighting systems for further energy savings, and a water reuse system for irrigation that promotes water conservation. 

The building is the new home for UA's SISSTEM program, dedicated to fostering a sound foundation in STEM fields. This investment in STEM education is crucial for Aruba's continued development as SISSTEM graduates will be equipped to tackle critical challenges such as sustainability, renewable energy, and climate change adaptation. In turn, it strengthens Aruba's position as a leader in innovation and environmental responsibility within the Caribbean region.

The Maria Convent rehabilitation project is a collaborative effort of the GoA, particularly the Ministry and Department of Economic Affairs, the University of Aruba, the Monuments Bureau, the EU as the project donor, and the UNDP team on the ground. It exemplifies the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals.  The opening ceremony underscores the value of support and investment in projects contributing to cultural heritage preservation, sustainable development, and social inclusion in Aruba and the wider region. The Maria Convent building stands as an example of progress, poised to nurture generations of future Aruban leaders in STEM fields.