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PSC brings inclusivity to STEM

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Sixty students with disabilities from five schools around Penang Island will be participating in Penang Science Cluster’s InclusiveSTEM programme, with Intel as its collaborator. The programme, aimed at providing these students with exposure and opportunities to explore STEM careers will receive mentorship from Intel’s 76 volunteers.

Facilitators will conduct the STEM activities during the workshop sessions, while the mentors will guide students through their Project Instructables, which will be submitted for the Penang International Science Fair (PISF) 2024. The participating schools with students divided into three cohorts, are SMK Tanjong Bungah, SMK Padang Polo, SMK Pendidikan Khas Persekutuan, SMK Jelutong and SMK Georgetown.

Intel has also committed about RM55,000 (USD12,000) to this programme and will support these students with STEM learning kits and loaned laptops. “Our support to this program extends beyond financial contributions; it includes the dedication of Intel volunteers who will mentor and guide students through hands-on STEM activities. These Intel professionals from various departments have stepped up to share their knowledge and expertise, and inspire students to explore fields that may have seemed out of reach,” said Intel’s Information Technology director, Joseph Lim.

The workshops will begin next week and continue until October 2024. Activities will include 3D printing and modelling, coding arcade games, exploring with Foldscopes, building Lego Robotics and EDU:bit, micro:Maqueen, and participating in the Project Instructables competition.

Penang State Executive Councillor for Youth, Sports and Health Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, who officiated the programme, said that this programme aligned with the state’s Penang2030 vision. “By equipping students with disabilities with STEM skills, we are preparing them for the digital future and contributing to a more inclusive workforce, which is essential for Penang’s growth.

“InclusiveSTEM not only supports vulnerable communities but also reduces inequalities, directly aligning with the empowerment goals of Penang2030,” he said, adding that Inclusive STEM goes beyond education as it builds empathy, fosters innovation, and strengthens resilience within the community.

Meanwhile, PSC’s Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Ooi Peng Ee highlighted that inclusive programmes like InclusiveStem inspire vulnerable students to develop technical skills to leverage technology in improving their lives. “This is critical because transformational technologies such as AI and humanoid robotics will augment our human intelligence and capabilities.

“If our students pursue studies and careers in science and technology fields, they could help to shape future technologies and improve the lives of every differently-abled member of our community,” he said.

The students in this program have various disabilities, including hearing disabilities, physical disabilities, and learning disabilities such as autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AHDH).

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