SIXTEEN secondary schools in Selangor took part in a theatre competition promoting interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through performing arts.
Selangor STEM Mini Theatre Competition was organised by the state government in collaboration with the National STEM Association.
Under the programme, the students received guidance from mentors who comprised undergraduates at higher education institutions.
Association president Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Noraini Idris said the programme began in 2019.
“Several stakeholders and I presented the proposal to Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, who was also head of the state education committee then.
“Within five minutes of hearing the proposal, he approved and pledged support for the programme,” she said during the launch at the Selangor State Secretariat building in Shah Alam.
She said the state government continued to provide grants for the programme during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Due to the restrictions then, the competition was conducted online.
“We negotiated with the Selangor Education Department to allow participating students to conduct related activities at school.”
Prof Noraini said they hoped to spur interest among students to take STEM subjects in school.
“There has been a decrease in the number of students pursuing such subjects, which is a worrying trend,” she added.
“Through the theatre competition, students can learn outside the classroom in a fun and entertaining environment.”
State public health and environment committee chairman Jamaliah Jamaluddin, who represented Amirudin, said the competition was a platform for students to showcase their talent and realise their potential.
“With the advent of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, STEM subjects have come to occupy an even more central role in education,” she said.
