BINTULU (Dec 4): Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPMS) recently held the ‘Nano Explorers: Big Adventures in a Tiny World’ programme, a vibrant STEM initiative designed to introduce preschoolers to the fascinating world of nanotechnology. The programme, which involved 49 children, 8 teachers and 16 parents from Lollipop Childcare Centre, Bintulu, stood out for its inclusive approach, ensuring that children with diverse learning needs ― including autistic children ― could participate comfortably and meaningfully.
Organised by Bachelor of Science in Industrial Chemistry students from the ECH4410 Nanomaterial Processing course, the event featured a series of interactive, hands-on activities such as Ready, Set, Fizz!, Water Drop Race!, Magic Milk Colour Explosion!, and a graphene model-building session.
“These activities were carefully developed to be sensory-safe, visually guided, and adaptable, allowing autistic children to participate at their own pace with minimal stress,” explained programme coordinator Dr Ellie Teo Yi Lih. Participants also enjoyed a short visit to the UPMS Deer Farm before the science sessions began, creating a relaxed and engaging start to the day. According to Dr Teo, the programme was designed not only to spark early interest in STEM, but also to champion the values of inclusive education.
“We wanted every child, regardless of developmental differences, to feel welcomed and supported. “Our activities ensured that autistic children could explore, learn, and enjoy science just as much as their peers,” she said. Teachers from Lollipop Childcare Centre commended the thoughtful planning of the UPMS students, noting that the structured yet flexible format helped autistic children remain calm, engaged, and confident throughout the activities.
The programme supports national efforts to strengthen early STEM exposure and reflects UPMS’s ongoing commitment to inclusive, community-focused education. UPMS intends to further expand such initiatives to promote accessible and meaningful science learning experiences for children throughout Sarawak.
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