KUDAT: Students here have proven that they have an eye for science during the recent Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (Stem) Fiesta, held on July 17-18.
The programme, jointly organised by Sabah Education Department (JPNS), Kudat District Education Office (PPD) and Sabah Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry, showcased various impressive innovations and projects by the students.
JPNS Deputy Director Muddin Beting said he was impressed by the scientific aptitude shown by the students.
“The students in Kudat have not only demonstrated their scientific skills, but also their understanding of scientific theory and the application of scientific laws.
“They are able to explain how their innovations or projects solve real-life problems using scientific principles,” he said during the closing ceremony of Stem Fiesta, held here at Hakka Hall, recently.
He disclosed that one of the projects that caught his attention was a project that incorporated the use of chrysanthemum flowers as an experimental material by SMJK Lok Yuk Kudat students.
“This project showed how the colour of the flower petals changed by using xylem fluid. This is an example of how Stem involves not only knowledge, but also creativity in creating something new and useful,” he said.
In light of this, Muddin expressed hope that the students would continue to pursue their interest and passion in Stem.
“JPNS hoped that all PPDs in Sabah, including PPD Kudat, can continue to encourage and support the students to venture into Stem. This will contribute to the success and development of the technology and science industry in Sabah,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kudat PPD Deputy Officer Matius Alok, said the students are not only able to understand and apply science concepts in problem-solving cases, but they could also incorporate cultural elements into their work.
One of the projects that incorporated cultural elements was the Sudampai (sash) and Pinakol beadwork, which is a cultural product of the local Rungus community.
He said students are now contributing to cultural preservation through their work in science and technology, which was not traditionally associated with such cultural practices.
“This project shows how Stem can promote culture through technology,” Matius said.
He added that PPD Kudat is proud of the achievements of the students in the district who have shown talent and potential in Stem.
“As the host, we feel proud because we observe that from all the schools participating in the exhibition, they have shown how this concept of science is applied to overcome the challenges they encounter in school.
“This exhibition is not conceptualised separately from their challenges but is instead an effort grounded in the requirements of their field. They take on the challenge of problem-solving in the context of science,” he explained.
“We hope this festival can motivate other students to engage in Stem programmes in the future,” he said.
Stem Fiesta involved a total of 16 schools in the Kudat district and featured various activities that challenged the students’ creativity and problem-solving skills in Stem, such as a water rocket competition, a mechatronic car Arduino competition, a short video competition, as well as webinars and lectures.
