SMK Bandar Utama Damansara 3 students gain valuable insights at STEM workshop

UTAR STEM outreach collaborated with the Department of Chemical Engineering from UTAR Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) to organise “Pathways to Success: Advancing AI, Chemical Engineering, and Sustainable Industries Post-SPM” workshop for 83 students from SMK Bandar Utama Damansara 3 on 7 August 2024.

The day began with a presentation by LKC FES Department of Chemical Engineering academic Ir Dr Chong Kok Chung, who gave the students an overview of the various pathways available to students after completing their SPM.  Since these students are in their final year of secondary school, this talk offered valuable insights into potential future directions. Dr Chong was assisted by Yeap Jia Qing, an undergraduate student at LKC FES.

Dr Chong sharing an overview of the pathways available after SPM

Following the talk, the workshop commenced with an introduction to computer networks, a crucial STEM subject in today’s industries. This segment aimed to equip students with essential knowledge for their future endeavours. Dr Chung also discussed advancements in AI technologies, highlighting the vast potential and uncertainties of this evolving field. Additionally, he introduced UTAR’s Chemical Engineering Programme, encouraging students to consider further studies at UTAR.

Students paying attention to Dr Chong during the workshop

The workshop aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Quality Education (SDG4) and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG9), by educating students on computer networks and current industry trends. By sharpening the students’ knowledge related to STEM, the workshop was also able to provide students with valuable career insights and a basic understanding of AI and chemical engineering, encouraging the development of innovation and supporting the growth of sustainable industries.