Life Education Academy Malaysia (LEAM), Institute of Ocean and Earth Sciences (IOES) , National Antarctic Research Centre (NARC) and Yayasan Penyelidikan Antartika Sultan Mizan (YPASM) successfully hosted the Science Camp & Research Gallery: Polar and Marine Science Exploration Program on May 29, 2024. This event aimed to immerse students in the wonders of world-class marine science research and inspire a passion for STEAM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).
The day was filled with enriching experiences for 40 secondary school students aged 13 to 19. Participants had the unique opportunity to attend marine science lectures from esteemed scholars at the Universiti Malaya, engage in interactive discussions, and gain insights into cutting-edge research. They toured the research laboratories, where they witnessed the intricacies of scientific investigations and the real-world application of theoretical knowledge.
One of the event's highlights was the visit to the marine research exhibition, which showcased the diversity of marine life and the importance of marine conservation. The students were also treated to a guided tour of the Rimba Ilmu Botanical Garden at the Universiti Malaya, where they learned about the rich diversity of tropical plants and the ecological significance of preserving such environments. The exploration concluded with a walk through the grand campus of the Universiti Malaya, including a visit to the iconic Dewan Tunku Canselor and the Central Library, leaving a lasting impression of the academic grandeur.
Professor Dr. Lim Phaik Eem, Executive Director of IOES, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, citing data from the National STEM Association (NSA) , which revealed that only 19% of secondary school students opt for science streams. She attributed this to the prevailing perception of science subjects as challenging and the lack of hands-on, participatory science activities in school curricula, which diminishes students' interest in scientific careers.
Ms. Mia Choo, Project Manager from LEAM, highlighted the academy's mission to inspire students through experiential learning. “True engagement with science comes from hands-on experiences and interactive activities. LEAM is committed to continuing its partnership with the IOES to offer more such visits, providing students with ample opportunities for learning and growth,” she remarked.
In conclusion, the event was a resounding success, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine sciences among the young participants and encouraging them to pursue future careers in STEAM fields. As a testament to the ongoing commitment to student development, LEAM is excited to announce that there are still limited spots available for the upcoming Qingdao Marine Science Camp in September. We value your participation and invite students and their friends to join this remarkable adventure and explore the wonders of marine science.