The Panama Section, founded in 1972 with 600 current members, is dedicated to promoting educational and professional activities that drive technological development and social well-being in the region. Under the motto "Let's Have Fun Programming," a total of 221 children presented over 100 technological projects, demonstrating the impact of this initiative on the development of 21st-century skills nationwide. The event was organized by the IEEE Panama Section's Computer Chapter in collaboration with the University of Panama's Faculty of Computer Science, Electronics, and Communication. The "Veranito Feliz 2026" program, organized by the IEEE Panama Section and the University of Panama, fostered early interest in STEM disciplines across the 10 provinces and indigenous regions. Donna Roper, coordinator of "Veranito Feliz 2026," highlighted that the program achieved national participation with children from all provinces, including Panama, Chiriquí, Darién, and the Comarcas. In turn, Dr. Ernesto Ibarra, president of the IEEE Panama Section, stated during the closing ceremony at Ciudad del Saber that these spaces not only foster technical skills but also the critical thinking needed for the country's future scientific leaders. Students demonstrated their learning through three main levels of training: Basic Level: Focused on computational logic through video games and animations in Scratch. Over three weeks in a virtual format, the program was structured into four progressive levels where participants acquired knowledge in programming, problem-solving, and technological creativity, guided by university students who acted as mentors. In the technical area, Marsys Moreno developed a circuit that simulated a functional traffic light. Advanced Level: Students implemented complex algorithms. Fernando Ruiloba created a level-based guessing system, Ashley Delgado developed a purchasing management program, Matías Cruz designed an interactive evaluation, and Luis Cheung implemented software for comparing numerical data. Notable projects included Thiago Dailey's skill game, Miguel Ramos's interactive aquarium, and Tomas Samudio's animated stories about the summer course. Edda Gonzalez presented a model of the Apollo 11 spacecraft, while Yorlenis Farragut, Yehilyn Olivarrent, and Alejandra Alveo created natural environments and characters. Other participants such as Valery Arbaiza, Jared Boyd, Juan de Dios, and Alicia Guerra developed agility challenges and educational trivia. Intermediate Level: Youth progressed to 3D design and circuits in Tinkercad.
