About HBA

The interest in sponsoring this event stems from their focus on supporting and improving secondary science education in Hawaii, and in fact, this program is the oldest and largest science education program in Hawaii. The purpose of the program is to stimulate interest amongst Hawaii’s students in fields of science and engineering, as well as to encourage students to consider science related careers. It is here at the state fair that academic excellence in the fields of science and engineering is recognized and rewarded. One of our very own “young scientists” was awarded the opportunity to participate in this year’s HSSEF, held at the Neal Blaisdell in Honolulu on April 7, and walked away with several awards. 

Congratulations to ninth grader Christopher Akatsuka whose project investigated the medical applications of the Commelina communis (commonly known as the Honohono grass).  Chris took home two awards for his work.  The first was a cash award of $100 from the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources Alumni Association.  The second award Chris received was an Educational Recognition Award, accompanied by a certificate, medallion and $75, from the U.S. Navy/Marines.