Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues to strengthen STEM education outreach through the Hands-on Experiments and Scientific Approaches in Chemistry programme organised by the Chemistry Section of the School of Distance Education (PPPJJ). The programme involved Form 4 and Form 5 students from Methodist Girls’ School (MGS), Penang, providing them with practical exposure to chemistry through interactive laboratory activities.
Held at the SDE Teaching Laboratory (J16), the programme introduced students to real-world applications of chemistry while enhancing their understanding of scientific concepts through experiential learning. Led by Dr. Gunasunderi Raju, the initiative featured guided experiments designed to develop students’ laboratory skills, scientific reasoning, and problem-solving abilities.
Representing the Dean of PPPJJ, Associate Professor Dr. Asyraf Mansor emphasised the importance of early STEM exposure in inspiring curiosity and encouraging students to explore science-related pathways. The programme enabled participants to experience a university-level laboratory environment while gaining insights into the relevance of chemistry in everyday life and modern technology.
Through three interactive experimental sessions conducted by USM academic and support staff, students were encouraged to think critically, investigate scientific ideas, and discover the excitement of scientific exploration.
The initiative reflects USM’s continued commitment to community engagement, STEM promotion, and nurturing future generations of scientists by providing meaningful learning opportunities beyond the classroom.
