Semenyih, Selangor, 24 April 2024 – The University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) wraps up another STEAM Carnival with wide acclaim, uniting future innovators and current leaders in a display of ingenuity and interdisciplinary celebration. Over 700 students from 18 schools engaged in multiple workshops, activities and exhibitions with facets of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM), held from 22 April to 24 April 2024.
Student Dialogue Session - Kon Li Ann, Joachim Rajaram, Ts. Nik Naharudin and Dr Jason Pandya-Wood
The event was officiated by Professor Sam Kingman, Interim Provost and CEO at University of Nottingham Malaysia, Ts. Nik Naharudin Bin Mohd Nasir, Director, Digital Talent and Entrepreneurship, Digital Industry Acceleration Division at Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Joachim Rajaram, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of CelcomDigi, and Martin Shelley, Campus Principal of Tenby International School Setia EcoHill.
Within the STEAM Carnival, multiple interactive workshops were held alongside activity booths by both the Faculty of Science and Engineering (FOSE) and the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS). The centrepiece of the event was the Interactive BioDome, an eco-exhibition developed collaboratively by the FOSE and students from the Tenby International School Setia EcoHill. These students are part of UNM’s STEAM Ambassador Programme, which aims to nurture their interest in STEAM disciplines, provide an engaging educational experience, raise awareness about environmental impact, and showcase innovative approaches to environmental sustainability education.
Prof Sam Kingman and Ts. Nik Naharudin exploring the Talking Plants project in the BioDome
“More than an interactive exhibit, the BioDome is a great showcase of STEAM education, and what we strive to achieve for students at UNM – an immersive, holistic learning environment where students can witness the seamless integration of science, technology, and society. Together with our partners, we aim to foster a long-term collaboration focused on innovation and sustainability. Through this initiative students will be able to observe and actively participate in a living learning environment,” said Professor Sam Kingman, UNM’s Interim Provost and CEO.
Through collaborative mechanics and functions employed by sensors, microcontrollers, speakers and immersive technologies, the ‘talking plants’ project enabled plants within the BioDome to communicate with visitors, offering insights into their well-being. The project exemplifies the seamless integration of natural sciences and advanced digital technology, seeking to foster a deeper understanding and connection with the natural environment.
The STEAM Carnival also saw participation from supporting partners MDEC and CelcomDigi, with MDEC conducting coding and drone technology activities together with Elvira Systems and Aiszzy Electronics that allowed students to engage in coding challenges and operate drones, highlighting the practical applications and exciting potential of aerial technology and computer science.
Students guiding an activity inside the STEAM Carnival Marquee
Meanwhile, CelcomDigi showcased rydeEV’s electric bikes that is especially beneficial for students seeking cost-effective modes of transportation, while driving EV and green energy adoption in the country. Students can lease-to-own a rydeEV e-bike with any CelcomDigi’s Postpaid 5G plans with the Easy360 instalment plan from as low as RM10 a day.
On supporting graduates to meet ever-changing expectations in the workplace, Professor Sam Kingman said, “In an age of rapid technological and societal changes where innovations impact our everyday lives, UNM’s emphasis on STEAM education unlocks previously untapped opportunities in connecting different academic disciplines with each other and encourages students to apply their creativity and critical thinking skills in real-world contexts. Through the STEAM Carnival, we will provide an immersive and inclusive learning opportunity and future-proof talents of tomorrow.”
For more information on the University of Nottingham Malaysia, visit www.nottingham.edu.my.
Posted on 25th April 2024