THE inaugural Innospark Penang Challenge, attracting 1,390 pupils from 46 primary schools across five districts in Penang, concluded with a final showdown at Tech Dome Penang today.
Students from 10 schools, representing the final two zones out of a total of 11, showcased their remarkable skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, who is also the state Human Capital Development, Science, and Technology Committee chairman, was captivated by the enthusiasm and outstanding talent displayed by the students.
Speaking to the participants, he said he vividly remembered the incredible talent and enthusiasm displayed by the other four zones of students at Han Chiang High School last August.
Highlighting the importance of STEM education for Penang, Jagdeep emphasised that their interest in STEM at a young age could contribute to the talent pipeline for the 350 over multinational corporations (MNCs) and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Penang, particularly in the Electrical and Electronics (E&E) and manufacturing sectors.
“Nowadays, you don’t need to move out of the state or Malaysia to find opportunities in the field of STEM because such opportunities are in Penang!” he remarked.
In addition, Jagdeep also reminded the pupils of the initiatives and efforts that have been undertaken by the state to encourage Penangites to take up interest in STEM through state agencies such as Penang STEM, Penang Science Cluster, as well as Tech Dome Penang.
“Today marks a significant milestone as we conclude the first phase of Innospark Penang and we are already brimming with anticipation for the second phase.
“Innospark is more than just a challenge or programme; it is a catalyst, sparking students’ interest in STEM through engaging, innovative and simulative challenges while ensuring that the students feel supported and encouraged at every step of their journey.
“What sets Innospark apart is its collaborative nature. We have been fortunate to have the involvement of over 100 industry mentors from Intel, Micron, Knowles, Flex, Motorola to guide and offer real-world insights in STEM,” Jagdeep said in his speech.
In his closing remarks, Jagdeep expressed his gratitude to all those who supported the initiative and hoped that the success of the Innospark Penang Challenge would encourage more young minds to pursue STEM careers.
Also present were Tech Dome Penang (TDP) chief executive officer Khoo Boo Wooi, TDP adviser and former Penang Skills Development Center (PSDC) chief executive officer Tan Eng Tong, Penang STEM general manager Richard Chung, Vitrox Education head of TVET Skill Education Dr Bugs Tan, and teachers and students from the 10 schools.
Story by Norman Sim
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat