Ministry: Apply for STEM Camps to boost science and technology interest

SIBU: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) is encouraging Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) across Malaysia to apply for STEM Camps at their schools.

This initiative is part of a collaboration between schools and Mosti to expose students to Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) fields.

Mosti secretary-general Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim said that unlike the larger Kembara Sains Borneo (KSB) 2024 programme, which involves multiple locations, the STEM Camp is specifically tailored to individual schools that apply.

“Through the STEM Camp, the ministry can identify the most suitable programmes for students at a particular school based on the proposals submitted.

Aminuddin (standing, eighth from left) with guests and SMK Deshon teachers and students.

“This approach is more tailored because teachers, educators and parents know their students’ preferences, focus and strengths best,” he explained.

He said this while speaking to reporters after visiting the KSB 2024 programme at SMK Deshon here on today (Sept 9).

The camp, which typically lasts for two to three days, allows for more comprehensive knowledge-sharing compared to shorter programmes.

“Mosti also offers various initiatives to foster students’ interest in STI fields. For example, National Science Week, conducted both online and in person, reached 600,000 participants last year.

“We also have the SainTech4U programme and the Malaysia Techlympics, which attracted over 2.2 million students from Sabah, Sarawak, and the northern and southern zones of Peninsular Malaysia,” he added.
Also present during the visit was Sibu District education officer Ahli Chikba.