The PTech 2024 program, a collaborative effort between UMPSA STEM Lab and IBM Malaysia Vietnam, aiming to upskill students and teachers at Kulim Vocational College. This initiative aimed to enhance STEM education with a particular focus on digital making skill sets. The two-day event was a resounding success, engaging 68 students and 6 teachers in a series of immersive and hands-on activities.
Day 1 July 31st, 2024
The event commenced with an opening session officiated by Prof Madya Dr Hamdan Bin Daniyal, the Dean of FTKEE, setting the stage for an inspiring and educational experience. The first slot featured Mr. Gajendran from IBM Malaysia and Vietnam, who introduced the philosophy behind PTech Program and its collaboration with UMPSA STEM Lab. Mr. Gajendran emphasized the importance of digital making skills and the pivotal role of the PTech program in bridging the skills gap in STEM education.
Participants were also introduced to the IBM SkillsBuild initiative, where they had the opportunity to earn their IBM certification through an AI Module. This certification not only added value to their educational journey but also equipped them with knowledge and skills that are highly relevant in today’s technology-driven world.
The second slot feature Dr Raja Mohd Taufika, Head of BTech program, in which the details and curriculum of Bachelor of Technology Program were presented.
Participants then went for faculty and campus tour.
Day 2 Aug 1st, 2024
Day 2 was packed with hands-on activities that brought learning to life. Students and teachers focused into UMPSA STEM Lab Arduino Robotics and Python Programming modules, gaining practical experience and developing their first game, the “Slider Game,” using Python. This activity not only introduced them to programming concepts but also highlighted the creative potential of coding.
Participants further explored digital making skill sets through physical computing in the Arduino Robotics module. Using the UMP STEM Bot, a 2-wheel miniature robot, they learned how to interact with microcontrollers and sensors. This included programming the robots to read IR sensors and follow lines, enhancing their understanding of robotics and sensor integration.
PTech 2024 Outcomes
The PTech 2024 program at Kulim Vocational College was designed to nurture essential digital making skills among students and teachers. By engaging in activities that combined creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the digital world.
The collaborative efforts of UMPSA STEM Lab and IBM aimed to equip the next generation with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly digital landscape. The success of this program underscores the importance of such initiatives in fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning.
As the PTech 2024 program continues to inspire and educate, it reaffirms the commitment of UMPSA STEM Lab and IBM to advancing STEM education. The participants’ enthusiasm and achievements during the event are a testament to the transformative power of hands-on, experiential learning. By empowering students and teachers with digital making skill sets, the program paves the way for a brighter and more innovative future.
A special appreciation goes to Ts. Roslinda Binti Roslan, Head of the Electronics Program, for her outstanding coordination, facilitation and communication between the participants and the UMPSA STEM Lab, as well as to all the teachers for their support and guidance throughout the program.
Stay tuned for more updates and stories from PTech 2024 as we continue to explore new frontiers in STEM education and digital making skills.
Nurul Hazlina Noordin
Aug 1st 2024
