STEM demonstrations ignite curiosity in young minds

To encourage the younger generation to pursue an interest in the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), the UTAR STEM Outreach organised a series of eye-opening STEM demonstrations for 42 students from SMK Ledang and SMK Tun Mamat on 24 July 2024 at UTAR Sungai Long Campus. The event was organised in collaboration with the Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) and the Division of Programme Promotion (DPP).

The first demonstration featured the CNC milling process, led by LKC FES academic Dr Wong Hong Mun. During the session, Dr Wong introduced the secondary school students to CNC machines and explained their functions, including milling and lathe operations. He also explained that these machines are operated using CNC programmes controlled by G-codes.

Dr Wong showcasing the CNC milling machine

The students had the opportunity to observe the CNC milling machine in action, watching as it engraved words and milled images. As everyone waited for the products to be completely milled out, Dr Wong proceeded with a short Q&A session to engage the students. To make things more fun and interesting, Dr Wong held a quiz where the winner received the milled image as a prize.

Q&A and quiz session with Dr Wong

The CNC milling machine

Another demonstration focused on the batch distillation of ethanol and water mixture. It was led by Dr Lee Zhi Hua from LKC FES. Dr Lee introduced the students to a pilot-scale distillation unit, providing them with a clearer understanding of how ethanol can be separated from water through distillation. This STEM demonstration gave students insight into the work of chemical engineers and their professional activities.

Dr Lee demonstrating how ethanol is separated from water

The day was both enjoyable and educational, offering students an opportunity to learn outside the traditional classroom setting. The STEM demonstrations not only provided an alternative learning experience but also aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Quality Education (SDG 4), Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7), and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9).