UTAR STEM Outreach captivates young minds with innovatives STEM activities

In a dynamic collaboration, UTAR STEM Outreach, alongside the Faculty of Science (FSc), the Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology (FEGT), and the Centre for Foundation Studies (CFS) Kampar, orchestrated an impressive lineup of 21 activities for the 247 eager participants of the 17th Malaysia Independent Chinese Secondary School (MICSS) Science Camp. The event took place on 26 May 2024 at UTAR Kampar Campus. The series of events unfolded with great enthusiasm and engagement, showcasing a vibrant blend of scientific exploration and interactive learning.

UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat welcomed the attendees with a speech at the Grand Hall of UTAR Kampar Campus. This was followed by addresses from a Tianjin University representative and a San Min High School representative.

The participants were divided into two groups: Team A engaged in hands-on activities at the STEM Workshops, while Team B took a campus tour of UTAR Kampar. After one and a half hours, the teams switched activities. The STEM Workshops, part of the 17th MICSS, included activities related to various scientific fields such as the environment and health, led by academics from FSc, FEGT, and CFS Kampar.

Participants trying their hands at various STEM activities

Packed with a diverse array of engaging activities, the event highlights included “Can You Build?” led by Dr Kwan Wai Hoe, “Having Fun with Arduino” with Dr Nuraidayani binti Effendy, and “Booth Activities for Environmental Programmes” under the guidance of Assoc Prof Dr Zafarullah Nizamani. Dr Leong Sim Siong introduced participants to the “Industry 4.0 Essentials: An Introduction to Industrial Engineering”, while Dr Yeoh Wei Ming led a hands-on session on the “Preparation of Nylon via Condensation Polymerisation”. Mr Seou Chi Kien demonstrated how to “Extinguish a Flame by Using Natural Ingredients” and Mr Ooh Keng Fei amazed students with “Flash Paper”.

Other fascinating sessions included “ABO Blood Grouping” with FSc student Yu Xi An, “Antioxidant Activities of Vegetables and Fruits” by Assoc Prof Dr Chai Tsun Thai, and “Atom Bingo” led by Ms Chuah Puoi Choo and Ms Elaine Lau Ying Man. Pn Sabrina binti Omar and Ms Lee Siok Wei unveiled the secrets of “Cryptography: The Art of Secret Writing”, while Dr Kwong Phek Jin and Ts Dr Teoh Chaiw Yee explored “The Science of Egg Candling: Illuminating Life and Egg Freshness”. FSc student Kew Ho Yang captivated students with “Eye Candy” and “Hot Ice”, and Mr Leong Thung Lim delved into “Home and Garden pH Indicators”.

Participants taking part in various STEM Workshops

Participants also learned about “How Much Sugar is in Your Drink?” with Chia Phee Phee and Mr Goh Kai Wey, and explored creativity with “Let Your Colours Shine” led by Mr Pan Wai Seng and Ms Tan Gaik Ling. “Mindful Blocks” was facilitated by Mr Tan Jun Bin and Ms Lee Mee Yung, and Dr Ali Yassoralipour discussed “Biodegradable Packaging Materials Derived from Agricultural Waste”. Finally, Mr Pan Wai Seng and Ms Tan Gaik Ling presented a “Traffic Light Solution”, and Pn Azida Illyani binti Anas engaged students in a “Tropical Fruit Seed Matching Activity”.

These STEM Workshops supported key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 2 Zero Hunger, SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4 Quality Education, SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 15 Life on Land.

Participants learning and having fun at the same time

Booths set up by various industry representatives