USM Education Outreach Activities Beyond Campus
Ad hoc Programme: MARA-STEMGREENTECH
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) extends its influence beyond campus through impactful Education Outreach Activities in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and Green Technology. These initiatives aim to bring education, innovation, and sustainability to underserved communities, particularly in rural areas, equipping them with tools and knowledge to adapt to today’s rapidly changing world. USM’s STEM outreach collaborates with schools, community centers, and local organizations, inspiring interest and skills in critical STEM fields. Through workshops, interactive demonstrations, and hands-on experiments, USM empowers students and young learners to explore and excel in scientific disciplines essential for national development.
In addition to STEM, USM emphasizes Green Technology as part of its sustainability mission. The university organizes seminars, public talks, and awareness campaigns to educate communities on environmental conservation, renewable energy, and sustainable practices. These include practical training sessions on renewable energy systems, sustainable agriculture, and waste management, encouraging communities to adopt eco-friendly practices.
One notable initiative is the MARA-STEMGREENTECH program. Conducted from July to September 2023, this program focuses on STEM and green technology for educators and students at MARA Junior Science Colleges (MRSM) across Malaysia. With support from USM’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, the program aims to enhance teachers’ knowledge in areas like Microbial Fuel Cells and Antimicrobial Resistance, aligning with SDG 4 (Quality Education). By equipping educators with innovative teaching skills, the program not only benefits students but also uplifts communities by fostering environmental awareness and contributing to sustainable livelihoods. Read More..
Programmed Basis: Program Sekolah Tunas Hijau
The year 2023 marked the third phase of the Sekolah Tunas Hijau program by USM’s CETREE and CGSS, targeting school students across Perak. With the theme “Towards Zero Single-Use Plastic in Schools,” Phase III of this program followed successful prior phases in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Kedah, focusing on waste, water, and energy management. Held in collaboration with the Perak State Education Department (JPNP), Yayasan Hijau Malaysia, and sponsored by Yayasan Hasanah and Malaysia’s Ministry of Finance, this one-day event took place at the Royal Perak Golf Club in Ipoh. It brought together 250 teachers from 125 schools across Perak’s 12 districts.
The program’s goal is to enhance awareness, knowledge, and sustainable practices related to plastic waste management among teachers and students. Running through to 2025, the initiative includes gamified performances where students role-play as “plastic-busters,” integrating environmental education in an engaging format.
The program was officiated by Dato' Haji Rosli bin Isa, Chief Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change, with presentations by CETREE experts and representatives from Yayasan Hasanah and Yayasan Hijau Malaysia. The event concluded with a token exchange between Dato' Rosli and JPN Perak’s Deputy Director of Student Development, symbolizing a shared commitment to sustainability in education. Read More..
