mBlock Programming 2024/1 – SK Kempadang

A synopsis of the program can be retrieved via the following link.

In the program, 30 participants from SK Kempadang were introduced to mBlock programming, learning to use its graphical interface to create sequences of instructions. They explored sequential programming, conditional statements, and loops through hands-on tutorials. These foundational skills were applied in two projects: a Snake game and a Pac-Man game. In the Snake game, they programmed the snake’s movement, growth, and collision detection, while in the Pac-Man game, they navigated a maze, collected points, and avoided ghosts. This approach provided a comprehensive understanding of programming concepts and their practical applications.

Appreciation to Cikgu Akmal for coordinating the communication between the participants and UMP STEM Lab.

 

Arduino Robotics 2024/2 – Mahaad Tahfiz Negeri Pahang

*UMP STEM Lab Arduino Robotics Programming Synopsis can be found here.

The Arduino robotics programming session focused on introducing 35  students and teacher, from Mahaad Tahfiz Negeri Pahang (MNTP), to the fundamentals of coding and robotics using Arduino microcontrollers. The content covered basic coding concepts and gradually progressed to advanced topics such as line following algorithms. Through hands-on exercises and projects, students gained practical experience in programming Arduino boards to control a miniature 2-wheel robotic systems. The session successfully engaged students in interactive learning activities, fostering their understanding of robotics principles and enhancing their coding skills.

A special appreciation is extended to Cikgu Adilla for her exceptional coordination in facilitating communication between the participants and the UMP STEM Lab.

 

Arduino Programming 2024/5 – SMK Paloh Hinai

UMP STEM Lab Arduino Programming can be found here.

Throughout the course, 36 participants were introduced to the concepts of programming loops, conditional statements, and sequential execution. Activities include controlling multiple LEDs, understanding the concept of digital output, using a photoresistor to expand their understanding of sensor interfacing, integrating analog sensors with Arduino and controlling digital outputs based on sensor readings. Towards the end, participants visualize data and messages using an OLED display.

Thank you Cikgu Affandi for coordinating the communication between UMP STEM Lab and the participants.

 

JPA JJPK, MARA Young Talent Program, Petronas PESP 2024

I recently had the opportunity, Alhamdulilah, to accompany my eldest daughter to her scholarship interviews with three prestigious sponsors – Jabatan Perkhidmatan Awam (JPA), MARA Young Talent Program, and Petronas PESP. It was a humbling yet proud experience to be there for her, although at times it felt like it added a bit of pressure, hehe.

Throughout her schooling years, I missed several of her milestones due to work commitments ;( . She achieved so much, from championing state-level hockey and Taekwondo tournaments to receiving academic awards. Last year, I made a pledge not to miss any more of my children’s milestones. Since then, we made trips to taekwondo tournament in Johor, rugby championship in Mentakab, and last week’s back-to-back interview sessions with JPA, MARA, and Petronas.

The nerves definitely got to me, even though it was their games and interview! I suppose it’s natural for a mother to feel this way.

The JPA interview was held on campus in Gambang, with a dress code requiring all black attire—trousers, shirt, and tudong. Candidates were tasked with discussing and deliberating several topics related to the scholarships they applied for. My daughter applied for a scholarship in France, much to my surprise! I had been promoting the UK and Germany, where I had experienced and been impressed by the teaching and learning facilities. Although it has been 11 years since I returned from the University of Edinburgh, I still cherish the joy, ambiance, and view of UoE.

The MARA interview took place in Taiping, a city near Ipoh. Candidates were asked to deliberate on the declining interest among students in pursuing STEM. My daughter had been preparing her pitch on various topics, from the OceanGate submersible implosion tragedy to AI in education, wars, and climate change—but not STEM education, haha. I hope she did well in presenting her ideas, insyaAllah. Declining interest in STEM is a global issue, and I have seen firsthand how challenging it can be, especially in rural, underprivileged areas.

The final interview was with Petronas PESP, held at the prestigious Petronas Leadership Center in Bangi. The ambiance and competitive aura were distinct from the first two interviews. Even only as a chaperon, I felt humbled. The drop-off lobby was filled with continental and European cars, though this did not necessarily reflect the socio-economic background of the candidates. Here, she was tasked with proposing and deliberating innovative ideas to make Petronas resonate with youngsters.

While the candidates were being interviewed, parents attended a parallel briefing session. The 360-degree hall and iMac experience were impressive. Parents were briefed on the scholarship requirements, Petronas’ main business, previous alumni, and targeted universities. It was a privilege to reach this stage.

To Cha, umi hope, pray, and believe the best for you. This experience was felt by the whole family – abah, umi, adik2, mami, maktok and tokba, who came all along the way to support. Whether you pursue dentistry or space engineering or mechanical engineering or chemical engineering, do your best and be kind to everyone.

Where we come from may differ—some may not have the same privileges, and some may have the whole support in the world — remember, where we are heading depends on what we do and how we react. Everything that happens is only by Allah’s will. Shukr ‘ala kulli hal.

Umi  – July 1st