Prime Minister Mike Eman participated in the Opening Night of the 2026 End-of-Year Exhibition of the Design Academy Aruba, where over 100 students presented the various creative works and projects they developed during the last school year. The exhibition, located at the National Archaeological Museum, brought together students, parents, teachers, families, and guests to celebrate local creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship.
The exhibition included works by students from MBO Art & Design, the ceramics group Clay Roots Future Makers, participants from Scol Dun’un Man, and students who participated in various courses and workshops organized by Design Academy Aruba. During his speech, Prime Minister Eman expressed his appreciation for the work that Design Academy Aruba does to develop creative talent in Aruba and shared a memory of the collaboration with the institute during the preparations for National Anthem and Flag Day.
“A few weeks ago, Design Academy Aruba helped with a very special project. Before March 18th, they accepted the challenge to restore the monument that bears the names of the 2,147 pioneers who signed for Aruba to become an autonomous country. The names were no longer clearly legible, and thanks to the dedication of the teachers and students, they were repainted and regained their shine.” The Prime Minister invited those present to give a round of applause to the teachers and students for their contribution to this historical project, indicating that the initiative showed not only artistic talent but also commitment to national heritage. “This work let us see how much dedication the teachers and students put into the academy. Tonight, I am very curious to see the results of all the investment that the students have made in their own works of art.” Eman congratulated all the participants and expressed his wish that the evening would be a celebration of talent, creativity, and personal development. “I wish all the students much success, much success also to all the teachers, and let us enjoy together the young talent that Aruba has.”
At the end of the official ceremony, Design Academy Aruba surprised the Prime Minister with a special gift, created by the same initiative of the students, as a sign of appreciation for his presence and support for the academy. With this exhibition, Design Academy Aruba highlighted the importance of investing in creative education and the development of local talent. The event offered a platform for young people to share their work with the community and show the creative potential that Aruba has to offer.
