On 18th May 2024, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Jeram, Selangor, hosted the “Establishment of STEM Robotics Club: Future Innovators” program, organized by the School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, UiTM Shah Alam. This initiative aimed to introduce and promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education to secondary school students by providing engaging, hands-on experiences in robotics. The project involved Mechanical Engineering students from the Technologist in Society (MEK603) course as the facilitators and secondary students from forms 1 to 5. The facilitators from UiTM are Mohd Saefullah Bin Noorpini (Program Director), Nur Alyaa Binti Asri (Vice Director). Siti Nadzirah Binti Razlan (Secretary), Lawrence Henry Noudin (Treasurer), and Farah Sakinah Binti Norazman (Event committee).
The title of the module used was the ‘AI Vision Workshop using Raspberry Pi Pico W and CircuitPython’ and also the robot used was called “BocoBot”. The program featured two primary activities: ‘Introduction to Robotics and Coding’ and ‘Program Your First Robot.’ These activities were designed to spark interest in STEM fields, enhance problem-solving skills, and demonstrate the practical applications of engineering and technology. The program also aimed to establish a sustainable STEM Robotics Club at SMK Jeram, ensuring continued student engagement and learning.
The day began with preparations and travel to SMK Jeram, Kuala Selangor. Upon arrival, the team set up robots and technical equipment. Registration was followed by an introductory session including a prayer, introductions, and ice-breaking activities. The morning continued with an introduction to robotics, covering robotic competitions, Raspberry Pi, Python, buzzers, and LEDs. Participants then engaged in the first hands-on session, building and programming a line-following robot, followed by the second session on the obstacle avoidance robot module. The afternoon was dedicated to final preparations and practice for the robotics competition. The day culminated with the line-following robot competition, followed by a closing ceremony and awards presentation. The event concluded with the group returning to UiTM Shah Alam.
Mohd Saefullah Bin Noorpini, the Program Director, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “We are very pleased with the cooperation and dedicated spirit shown by the students. This program not only taught them about robotics and IoT but also opened their eyes to the importance of leadership and social responsibility. It has been a truly enriching experience for all involved.”
Cytron Technologies Sdn. Bhd. collaborated to organize the event, bringing together community support and professional expertise to enrich the students’ learning experiences. Prof. Madya Dr. Noor Ayuni Che Zakaria (innovation.my UiTM Shah Alam) and Dr. Siti Rabizah Makhsin, advisor of the program, played pivotal roles in its successful execution. Also, a big appreciation to Cikgu Noresmanizza and Pn. Siti Zabidah Bt. Ismail (Pengetua) the representative from SMK Jeram for making this collaboration a success.
In summary, the establishment of the STEM Robotics Club at SMK Jeram marked a significant step towards promoting continuous learning and innovation among students. The program was a resounding success, inspiring the next generation of engineers and technologists. This program was a significant milestone in promoting STEM education and fostering a culture of innovation and creativity among young students.