THE STEM Showcase 2024 was successfully launched at Han Chiang High School today, reaffirming its mission to instil a love for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
This state-level two-day event, held in conjunction with the National Science Week, features a range of activities, including interactive exhibitions, STEM workshops, AI Challenge, quizzes and more.
Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, who oversees the state’s Human Capital Development, Science and Technology Committee, encouraged youngsters to venture into STEM fields.
Jagdeep shared that STEM Showcase 2024, involving 52 schools and offering over 4160 workshop slots, is expected to attract 15,000 visitors over the next two days.
“This programme is important for our youngsters as it helps to spark their interest in STEM subjects.
“Moreover, Penang offers ample job opportunities in this field, so they do not have to go abroad to pursue their careers,” he added.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang, who was also present, said National Science Week reflects the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation’s (MOSTI) commitment to promoting a culture of science, technology, and innovation among young people through various activities.
“To increase interest and engagement in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) among students and the community, especially in STEM subjects, our Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, requested MOSTI last month to identify 100 local scientists to participate in an outreach programme for 100 schools.
“MOSTI, through the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM), has prepared a list of potential scientists and will be launching a programme called ‘STI 100 on the Power of Three’ (STI 100³).
‘This programme will involve 100 scientists and 100 schools and will be implemented over 100 days,’ he added.
Chang joined Jagdeep and other dignitaries for the launching of the STEM Showcase 2024. Prior to this, a similar event was held at UoW Batu Kawan on May 3 and 4.
Apart from that, Chang said MOSTI is organising Malaysia Techlympics, a competition designed to develop youth with critical thinking skills, innovation, and a high level of impact.
“Malaysia Techlympics 2024 has begun its preliminary round for the East Coast zone and will continue to other zones, including Sabah Zone, Sarawak Zone, Central Zone, North Zone, and South Zone.
“I urge the young people of Penang to take part in the Malaysia Techlympics 2024 as the preliminary round for North Zone will take place from Oct 7 to 8 at the Jubli Perak Hall Kuala Kangsar, Perak before the finals in November, which will take place in Putrajaya,” Chang said.
The STEM Showcase 2024 is organised by Techdome Penang with the support of MOSTI, various other agencies, and sponsors, including Han Chiang High School as the host. Jabil and Intel are the two main sponsors of the event.
Some random pictures taken at the opening ceremony of STEM Showcase 2024
Story & Pix by Tanushalini Moroter