Kuen Cheng High School students get creative by crafting unique keychains at STEM Workshop

UTAR staff and students with 43 enthusiastic participants

Kuen Cheng High School buzzed with excitement as 43 enthusiastic students gathered for the “Crafting Unique Keychains through Concrete and Mortar Casting Workshop” on 13 July 2024.

The workshop aimed to introduce students to the intricate art of creating personalised keychains using concrete and mortar. Guided by academic staff, undergraduates, and postgraduates from Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES), the students embarked on a hands-on journey that combined creativity with technical skills.

Organised collaboratively by UTAR STEM Outreach and LKC FES, this event marked the first session of the Mentorship Programme, facilitated by LKC FES academic Ir Ts Dr Lee Foo Wei. In the Mentorship Programme, UTAR students took on the role of mentors for school students, effectively guiding them through hands-on STEM activities.

The workshop was designed to be inclusive, catering to both beginners and DIY enthusiasts. Dr Lee kicked off the session with an informative briefing on the properties and uses of concrete and mortar. Further guidance was provided by UTAR postgraduate student Jason Ting Jing Cheng, who explained key concepts and offered technical support. Additionally, UTAR undergraduate student Loke Zheng Yan provided hands-on assistance, ensuring that each student could successfully create their custom keychain.

During the session, students learned the fundamentals of mold-making, mixing, and casting. These foundational skills enabled them to craft durable and unique keychains. The workshop emphasised creativity, allowing students to experiment with various colours, textures, and shapes to design pieces that mirrored their personal styles.

Dr Lee (left photo) and postgraduate student Jason Ting explaining the properties and uses of concrete and mortar

UTAR undergraduate student Loke guiding the students

The “Crafting Unique Keychains through Concrete and Mortar Casting Workshop” was not just an educational activity but a memorable experience that left a lasting impact on the students. They departed with newfound skills, custom-made keychains, and a deeper appreciation for the art of crafting with concrete and mortar.

Furthermore, the success of the workshop has set a promising precedent for future sessions in the Mentorship Programme, continuing to inspire and educate young minds.

Students enjoying themselves as they craft their keychains