Latest news with #EngineeringandMathematics
Borneo Post
16 hours ago
- Science
- Borneo Post
Petrosains Discovery Rover delivers STEM to Sabah rural communities
Guests and students at SJK (C) Kuok Ming, Tawau, gather around Petrosains Discovery Rover. TAWAU (June 21): Petrosains is reaching out to communities and students in rural and remote areas across more than nine districts in Sabah through its latest outreach initiative, the Petrosains Discovery Rover. This initiative features a mobile exhibition truck, which brings interactive exhibits and engaging activities designed to spark interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education among students, while also equipping teachers with the necessary tools and techniques to enhance STEM delivery in classrooms. Among the activities featured in this travelling outreach are: Math Kit: A hands-on game module designed to strengthen numeracy through interactive problem-solving tasks. Drone Challenge: Encouraging students to explore basic principles of flight and programming. Carbon-O-Polly: A game-based activity focused on environmental sustainability and carbon literacy. Da Vinci Bridge: A game challenge utilising physics and creative thinking. Science Show: Live demonstrations to illustrate scientific concepts in an exciting and accessible way. Teachers' Upskilling Session: Professional development activities aimed at enhancing STEM teaching methodologies among educators. The launch ceremony was officiated by Syahrin Samsir, Sabah's Deputy Permanent Secretary II of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI); representing Datuk Mohd Hanafiah Bin Mohd Kassim, Permanent Secretary of KSTI Sabah; together with Mohammad Fuad Bin Rahman, Director of National Science Centre (PSN); Maria Teo, Senior General Manager of Global HR Partners for Project, Technology & Health, Safety, Security & Environment (PT&HSSE), Petronas; Ahmad Munir Akram Ahmad Faiz, General Manager of Human Capital Investment, Petronas; and Ezarisma Azni Mohamad, Chief Executive Officer of Petrosains. It was held at SJK(C) Kuok Ming, Tawau, in conjunction with Kembara Sains Borneo 2025. During the launch, Ezarisma Azni Mohamad, Chief Executive Officer of Petrosains said: 'As a social impact arm under Petronas, Petrosains is committed to democratising access to science and technology education, with a clear mission to spark interest, open up opportunities, and ultimately help individuals realise their full potential in STEM education.' He said: 'Sabah is the first and only state to host Petrosains Discovery Rover this year, making this launch profoundly significant for us. This emphasises our commitment to providing inclusive access to education, particularly in driving STEM literacy and empowering future talent, especially in rural and underserved communities.' The initiative is expected to benefit more than 5,000 students statewide. This effort complements Petrosains' long-standing presence in the state through its satellite centre, Petrosains PlaySmart Kota Kinabalu, which has welcomed over one million visitors since its inception in 2012. Petronas continues to uphold its commitment to advancing education and human capital development in Sabah through various high-impact initiatives. These include support for the establishment of the Tawau and Sandakan Science Centres, aimed at nurturing interest in science and technology through interactive exhibits and educational programmes. In 2023, a Petronas-led programme in Tawau involved the participation of 520 students and 65 teachers to raise awareness about the Petronas Education Sponsorship Programme (PESP). In August 2024, Yayasan Petronas launched an initiative to enhance internet connectivity at SMK Wallace Bay, Pulau Sebatik, benefiting 25 teachers and 293 students, with plans to expand to the surrounding community. The school also hosts teacher Azrinsyah Abdul Aziz, a participant of the Program Duta Guru – Yayasan Petronas' flagship initiative aimed at upskilling 4,500 STEM teachers in underprivileged schools nationwide by 2030. In addition, through the WeHelp Programme led by the Sabah State Education Department in collaboration with Yayasan Petronas, Petronas Floating LNG, UTP, and SLB, Petronas has contributed 17,190 scientific calculators to students across the state. The event also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Petronas and two institutions – Institut Latihan Teknik dan Perdagangan Papar and Kolej Teknologi Yayasan Sabah – under the Petronas Vocational Institution Sponsorship and Training Assistance (VISTA) programme, further strengthening vocational education in Sabah. Kembara Sains Borneo, running as part of the National Science Week initiative, covers selected areas in southern Sarawak and ends in Tawau, Sabah. The programme, organised by Pusat Sains Negara (PSN), supported by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and strategic partners including the National Planetarium, Academy of Sciences Malaysia, Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia, and Petrosains, seeks to provide hands-on science learning opportunities for students in the remote areas across Sarawak and Sabah.
Daily Express
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Express
Fresh approaches needed to reignite interest in medicine, says expert
Published on: Friday, June 20, 2025 Published on: Fri, Jun 20, 2025 By: Bernama Text Size: Once regarded the pinnacle of academic achievement, pursuing a career in medicine is now seen as a long, demanding and rigid path. Kuala Lumpur: There was a time when becoming a doctor was seen as one of the most prestigious career paths; when local universities could no longer cope with the surge in applications for medical studies. Many parents were once willing to spend large sums to send their children abroad to study medicine after failing to secure places in local universities. Times, however, have changed, and the field is now increasingly being overlooked. Advertisement Health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad recently urged straight-A SPM students to consider pursuing medicine at the university level. He also expressed concern over students' declining interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, warning that it could have long-term implications for the country's medical sector. This decline in interest is acknowledged by Dr Norsham Juliana Nordin from Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, who notes that today's youths are more informed and career-conscious, having grown up in a vastly different environment from that of previous generations. 'They are more critical when evaluating career choices, often prioritising work-life balance. While medicine was once regarded as the pinnacle of academic achievement, it is now seen as a long, demanding and rigid path,' she told Bernama. 'This especially when compared to emerging fields like technology, entrepreneurship, data science, or artificial intelligence.' Advertisement Further discouraging high-achieving students from a career in medicine are the social media narratives that highlight hardships, long working hours, and perceived lack of fair compensation. 'This trend reflects society's growing tendency to prioritise income over impact. Today, students who aspire to become doctors are often discouraged by the perceived academic burden and the significant personal sacrifices involved,' Norsham added. She pointed out that ongoing issues within the national healthcare system – such as unstable contract positions, excessive workloads, and toxic work cultures, including bullying or high-pressure environments with minimal support – have become red flags for young people. At the same time, social media glamourises other careers as being more flexible, expressive, and less stressful. Norsham also believes the declining appeal of medicine is partly due to how the profession is treated as 'guilty until proven innocent' when it comes to patient care. Every medical decision carries inherent risk, and as such, 'every action taken to save a patient, no matter how small, invites scrutiny and accountability', she said. Restoring true purpose To reignite interest in the profession, Norsham suggests regularly reminding both practitioners and medical students of its true value: the nobility of saving lives. She believes a more holistic approach is needed, starting with restoring joy to the learning process. 'The younger generation is not afraid of sacrifice – they just want that sacrifice to be valued and supported by a fair system. Now is the time for all stakeholders, especially experts and influential medical figures, to step forward and lead the change.' Norsham also stressed the importance of nurturing interest in medicine from secondary school, giving students early exposure to the profession. 'If they see that being a doctor isn't a burden but a meaningful life path, they'll choose it willingly. But this requires collective readiness to shape a more appealing and competitive career path in medicine, so we can present a more convincing narrative to students.' Relatedly, she believes medical curriculums today can be both fun and innovative without compromising the integrity of the field. 'Creative learning methods like simulations, virtual reality, gamification, and story- or visual-based teaching not only strengthen comprehension but also foster positive emotion, which is vital for sustaining student interest,' she said. 'Let's restore the core strength of this profession: the healing spirit. Today, we must first 'heal the young healers' by restoring their mental health, motivation, and work environment.'
The Star
2 days ago
- Science
- The Star
UTAR's Centre for Foundation Studies Kampar is shaping future talents through school outreach
A foundation for the next generation, science for tomorrow — the NextGen Science 2025 committee celebrating the success of the event. When it comes to pre-university education, students and parents seek more than just academic excellence. They value meaningful experiences that ignite curiosity, build confidence and nurture real-world skills. At the Centre for Foundation Studies (CFS), Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Kampar Campus, learning extends beyond textbooks. It is about inspiring the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and changemakers. Over the years, CFS Kampar has taken proactive steps to organise impactful educational outreach initiatives that engage school students and foster a love for learning. Through these projects, the centre has not only affirmed its role as a leading provider of foundation education but has also positioned itself as an active contributor to youth development and community enrichment. A key highlight among its outreach programmes is the 'NextGen Science 2025', held recently at the UTAR Kampar campus. Organised by CFS Kampar in collaboration with the Confucius Institute at UTAR, the two-day event drew together hundreds of curious young minds from various secondary schools to explore the wonders of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Designed to ignite scientific interest through interactive exhibitions, hands-on experiments and lively science-themed competitions, the event served as a creative and inspiring platform for secondary and pre-university students. Not only did participants engage with UTAR lecturers and student facilitators, but they also experienced first-hand the excitement of scientific discovery in a vibrant campus setting. The success of NextGen Science 2025 demonstrated UTAR's dedication to cultivating interest in STEM from an early age, while also promoting science literacy and innovation among school students. Another notable initiative was 'Knowledge Masters Quiz Challenge 2024', which attracted more than 380 enthusiastic students from over 35 schools across Perak and Selangor. Organised by CFS Kampar, the event provided a lively platform for students to test their general knowledge, quick thinking, and teamwork in a competitive yet enjoyable setting. Complementing these outreach programmes was the 'Microbotics and Edukit Design Workshop', and specifically designed for Tamil school students in the Kinta Selatan district. This hands-on workshop introduced participants to the basics of robotics and circuitry using beginner-friendly Edukits and microcontroller programming. Further strengthening its connection with local schools, CFS Kampar has also collaborated with Shen Jai High School to host the annual '5cience Xplain' science fair, since 2022. This engaging fair is designed to spark scientific curiosity through interactive exhibits, live experiments and creative presentations delivered by UTAR Foundation students. Now in its third consecutive year, 5cience Xplain has consistently showcased the talent and innovation of UTAR students, who take the lead in designing demonstrations that make science fun and accessible. With topics ranging from chemistry to physics, the fair not only entertains but also motivates school students to think critically and explore scientific concepts with enthusiasm. Events such as 5cience Xplain also exemplify meaningful collaboration between higher education institutions and secondary schools. They provide students with a glimpse into future academic pathways and career opportunities in science and technology, cultivating aspirations from a young age. What truly distinguishes CFS Kampar is the active participation of its Foundation students and academic staff in these outreach projects. Every initiative is carefully planned to encourage student involvement, not only among school students but also UTAR's own Foundation students, who contribute as organisers, facilitators, and mentors. UTAR offers over 140 programmes, from Foundation Studies to Bachelor's, Master's and PhD degrees in diverse fields such as Accounting, Business, Finance and Economics, Actuarial Science, Mathematics and Process Management, Agriculture and Food Science, Arts, Social Sciences and Education, Chinese Studies, Creative Industries, Digital Animation, Multimedia and Design, Engineering and Built Environment, Information and Communication Technology, Life and Physical Sciences, as well as Medicine and Health Sciences. To learn more, visit or contact 05-468 8888 (Kampar campus) or 03-9086 0288 (Sungai Long campus). Feel free to walk in or call for any enquiries on weekdays from 9am to 5pm (closed on public holidays).
Broadcast Pro
13-06-2025
- Science
- Broadcast Pro
MBRSC launches Career Camp to inspire future Emirati talent
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has announced the launch of its Career Camp, inviting Emirati high school students across the UAE to register for a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insights into the dynamic world of space, science, and corporate functioning. Scheduled to take place from July 1 to 11, 2025, at the MBRSC headquarters in Al Khawaneej, the camp is designed to prepare students for their future educational and professional paths in the field of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and corporate sector. Open to motivated students with a keen interest in space sciences, engineering, technology, and organisational functions, the camp provides a blend of exposure, learning, and inspiration. Through interactive sessions and hands-on experiences, participants will explore the various departments of MBRSC, learn about real-world applications of STEM, and understand the key functions that support the Centres operations. The camp aligns with MBRSCs commitment to nurturing national talent and creating pathways for youth to contribute meaningfully to the UAEs growing space and innovation landscape. To register, students must send their CV to careercamp@ before June 20, 2025.
Al Etihad
31-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
ADNOC expands its STEM Education Programme to empower UAE students in AI
31 May 2025 18:47 ABU DHABI (WAM)ADNOC has expanded its Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education programme to empower UAE students in artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technology through an initiative called 'STEM for Life: Future of AI Schools Challenge' which held the finals today at the Abu Dhabi Energy attendance were Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and ADNOC Managing Director and Group CEO; Sarah bint Yousif Al Amiri, Minister of Education; Dr. Abdulla Humaid Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy; Hajer Ahmed Mohamed Al Thehli, Secretary-General of the Education, Human Development and Community Council; Khalaf Abdulla Rahma Al Hammadi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Pension Fund, alongside senior ADNOC in January 2025, the Future of AI Schools Challenge received 14,500 applicants from 351 schools across the country, with 896 teachers helping students to design, build and pitch AI solutions that addressed one of three themes: creating real-world impact, demonstrating blue sky thinking or winning the hearts and minds of local communities. A total of 1,500 submissions were received, with 80 students in 27 teams selected to attend the the final, ADNOC and AIQ showcased how ENERGYai, the world's first agentic AI solution for the energy industry, can be deployed to improve decision making, unlock value and drive operational Al Falahi, Director, Group Business Support & Special Tasks at ADNOC, said: 'We warmly congratulate the winning teams of the Future of AI Schools Challenge for their innovative ideas, creativity and can-do mindset. Through our STEM education program, ADNOC is equipping the UAE's young talent with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in an AI-driven future."As we work to become the world's most AI-enabled energy company, we will continue to nurture the next generation of innovators who will harness the power of AI to drive progress for the UAE and unlock solutions to global challenges.' Winning teams pitched their projects to a jury which included members from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, Ministry of Education, Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, ADNOC, Khalifa University, ADNOC Technology Academy, Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, Microsoft and Neubio. Following an assessment by the jury, nine teams each were awarded the gold, silver and bronze positions respectively. Submissions featured impressive AI-powered solutions, including an automated greywater purification system, a mobile app, a personalized learning platform, and a smart farming Future of AI Schools Challenge aims to equip students with the skills needed for an evolving technology-driven future and harness the potential of AI to create value and solve real-life challenges. It is aligned with the UAE's vision to establish the country as a global AI leader by 2031 and supports the integration of AI into the UAE academic curriculum for the 2025–26 academic year. It also builds on ADNOC's corporate social responsibility program that aims to promote STEM education. Since it was launched 2018, ADNOC has empowered more than 351,000 young scientists, engineers and innovators.
