PPR Taman Mulia was abuzz with excitement as Nurul Izzah, Adviser to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, visited the STEM and Robotics enrichment class, a significant initiative under Kelab MySTAR. This program, focused on nurturing a passion for science and technology among children living in public housing, is a joint effort by Universiti Malaya and Think City, developed under the Program K2K.
The event showcased the success of Kelab MySTAR, which has garnered strong community support and consistent attendance. Around 20 children from PPR Taman Mulia and PA Seri Kota in Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, regularly participate in the program, reflecting a growing interest in STEM activities. These sessions have become a highlight for the children, offering them a hands-on experience with science and technology in a fun and engaging way.
Nurul Izzah expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, "The success of Kelab MySTAR is a testament to the potential of our children when given the right opportunities. It is inspiring to see how these young minds are being nurtured to explore the wonders of science and technology. This program is not just about education; it’s about empowering our future leaders to think critically and creatively."
The driving force behind this initiative is a dedicated team of academicians from Universiti Malaya. The workshop was spearheaded by trio Ir. Dr. Mas Sahidayana Mohktar, Director of the UM STEM Center, Dr. Zati Hakim Azizul Hasan from the Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology, and Prof. Siti Nursheena Mohd Zain from the Faculty of Science. Their expertise and passion for education have been instrumental in making the program a success.
Prof. Siti Nursheena Mohd Zain, who plays a key role in the initiation of the program commented, "At Universiti Malaya, we believe in the transformative power of education. Our goal with Kelab MySTAR is to ignite a passion for STEM in these young minds, giving them the tools and confidence to pursue their dreams. The enthusiasm and curiosity we see in these children are truly inspiring."
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The program's success is further highlighted by the variety of activities offered, from building baking soda-powered boats to creating lemon volcanoes. The workshop on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, where children engaged with AI-driven robots and intelligence technology, was particularly well-received. They were shy to try at first, but got curious and confident quite fast, sparking even greater interest in the fields of science and technology.
This initiative comes at a critical time, as Malaysia faces a concerning decline in students enrolling in STEM subjects. According to recent statistics, only 16.64% (61,333 students) of secondary school students opted for the STEM A package in 2023, and just 5.43% (about 20,014 students) chose the STEM B package. This decline has raised alarms about the future availability of skilled workers in STEM fields, which are crucial for the nation's economic growth and competitiveness.
The importance of nurturing STEM talent is underscored by the growing demand for skilled professionals in the labour market, particularly as we navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This era of rapid technological advancement requires a workforce adept in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Developing these skills from an early age is crucial not only for individual career success but also for national economic growth and innovation.
As Malaysia strives to position itself as a leader in the global digital economy, initiatives like Kelab MySTAR are vital in preparing the next generation for the demands of the future workforce. By fostering a strong foundation in STEM, we are equipping our children with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and technology-driven world.
This collaboration between Universiti Malaya and Think City under Program K2K is a significant step toward bridging the educational gap and empowering the next generation of innovators from all walks of life.
