The Student Explore Aquatic Sciences (SEAS) Camp 2024 was a resounding success at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). Led by Dr. Chee Su Yin, the camp featured a dedicated team of staff, postgraduate students, research officers, research assistants, and interns from the Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), USM, along with support from Water Watch Penang, Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Pulau Pinang, and Perbadanan Bekalan Air Pulau Pinang. A total of 30 primary school students, aged 13 to 17, participated alongside two teachers.
The camp featured three engaging activities at various USM locations. The first, led by Associate Professor Dr. Lee Hooi Ling from the School of Chemical Sciences, was supported by interns from CGSS and Water Watch Penang. In this hands-on session, students tested the pH levels of drinking water and created sodium alginate worms/beads, enhancing their understanding of scientific principles.
The second activity took place at the Centre for Global Archaeology Research, where Mr. Er Vin discussed the persistent issue of microplastics and their detrimental effects on the environment. Students also learned about advanced tools, including a Scanning Electron Microscope, during this informative session assisted by the Centre for Marine and Coastal studies (CEMACS) team.
The final activity, led by Dr. Chee Su Yin and the CGSS team, introduced three gamified learning experiences focused on the UN Sustainable Development Goals: Crossword Mania, a Recyclable Game, and an SDG Board Game. Emphasizing SDGs 6, 12, and 14, these interactive games allowed students to learn through play and engage with their peers.
At the conclusion of the event, Dr. Hong Chern Wern, Executive Manager of Water Watch Penang, expressed gratitude to all participants for their enthusiastic involvement and presented certificates of participation.
For further information, please contact the program coordinator, Dr. Chee Su Yin, at the Centre for Global Sustainability Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia, at suyinchee@usm.my, or Dr. Hong Chern Wern, Executive Manager of Water Watch Penang, at hong.wwp@gmail.com.
