STEM Outreach Program: PPKK Sparks STEM Interest among YEAR 1 Students of SK Bertam Perdana

A group of PPKK staff and postgraduate students participated in and conducted a STEM Outreach Program at SK Bertam Perdana, Penang on August 18th. The program focused on the participation of Year 1 students, aiming to provide early exposure and foster their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) through a hands-on learning approach. Also participating in this program were representatives from several schools in USM, including the Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Cancer Centre (PKTAAB) and the Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Engineering Campus.

The Year 1 students were exposed to two main activities based on basic science applications, namely a DIY water filtration system (Muddy to Marvelous) and a volcanic eruption simulation (Lava Experiment). Students were guided to build a simple water filtration device using recycled and natural materials. This activity aimed to provide a basic understanding of the physical filtration process and the importance of clean water. Through the Lava Experiment, which utilized a mixture of acetic acid (vinegar) and sodium bicarbonate, students had the opportunity to witness firsthand the chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas.

 The closing ceremony was officiated by the Vice-Chancellor of USM, Prof. Ir. Dato' Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, and was also attended by USM staff, parents of the students, and teachers of SK Bertam Perdana.

The program received an overwhelming response from the students and the school. Such interactive approaches have proven effective in stimulating critical thinking and curiosity in students at an early age. A million thanks are extended to the management and teachers of SK Bertam Perdana for their close cooperation throughout the program.

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