Mayotte Science Festival: Aromatic Adventures Spark Scientific Curiosity in Young Explorers – Breaking News!
Mamoudzou, Mayotte – November 24, 2025 – The annual Science Festival has officially kicked off in Mayotte, but this year’s edition is far from a typical science fair. With the captivating theme “Small steps, big discoveries: science through the senses,” the festival is immersing young people in the world of scientific exploration through a uniquely aromatic and experiential journey. This is a breaking news development for STEM education initiatives in the region, and a prime example of innovative outreach designed to capture the imagination of the next generation.
Unlocking Science Through Smell: Mayotte’s Olfactory Treasure
The three-day festival, running November 24th, 25th, and 27th, is a collaborative effort between the academy organizing the event, the Coconi Rural Center of Excellence, the 3CO – Tourist Office, and the phytochemistry laboratory, which serves as the festival’s ambassador. At the heart of this year’s program is a celebration of Mayotte’s distinctive olfactory landscape – a fragrant world dominated by ylang-ylang, vanilla, and sugarcane.
Dr. Yazid Souf, a chemist and head of the phytochemistry laboratory at PER in Coconi, explains the driving force behind this sensory approach: “The objective is to introduce science to young people, to make it accessible to them with the example of perfume. Mayotte is a land of perfumes and scents… notably through ylang-ylang. We hope that, thanks to their senses, young people will develop intelligence, that they will discover the olfactory heritage of Mayotte.” This isn’t just about identifying pleasant smells; it’s about building a foundation for scientific thinking.
A Sensory Circuit for Budding Scientists
Today’s activities centered around a deep dive into the island’s perfumes and olfactory heritage. Students from the Jack Pass school participated in a scent museum visit, explored a garden brimming with emblematic Mayotte plants, and witnessed the fascinating process of ylang-ylang distillation firsthand. The program also included adapted scientific workshops, educational games, and a playful exploration of tastes – all designed to stimulate curiosity and foster a love of learning.
“At the end of this morning, the goal is for them to be able to recognize a plant or flower and associate it with a smell and a perfume,” Dr. Souf emphasized. “We want to arouse the curiosity of young people.” This hands-on approach is a powerful departure from traditional classroom learning, offering a more engaging and memorable experience.
The Power of Scent and Taste in Education: A Growing Trend
The integration of sensory experiences into STEM education is gaining momentum globally. Research increasingly demonstrates that engaging multiple senses enhances learning and retention. By connecting abstract scientific concepts to tangible, relatable experiences like smell and taste, educators can make science more accessible and appealing to a wider range of students. Mayotte’s Science Festival is a shining example of this trend in action.
The day culminated in a well-deserved snack for the young participants, where the focus remained on sensory exploration – encouraging them to identify different tastes and connect them to their corresponding aromas. It was a fitting end to a morning dedicated to unlocking the wonders of science through the power of the senses.
The Mayotte Science Festival isn’t just a local event; it’s a testament to the power of innovative educational approaches and a celebration of the island’s unique natural heritage. As the festival continues, it promises to inspire a new generation of scientists and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the world around us. Stay tuned to Archyde for further updates and insights into this exciting initiative. For more information on STEM education and innovative learning techniques, explore our dedicated Science & Education section.
