Introduction:
The JAZARI Community Service: Technity 23 program, held on 11th May 2023 at SMK Dato' Sulaiman in Batu Pahat, was a one-day workshop aimed at cultivating interest and skills in robotics among students in rural schools. Organized by JAZARI Innovation Club in collaboration with the District Education Office (PPD) Batu Pahat, SMK Dato' Sulaiman, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), this program sought to provide practical knowledge in electronics and robotic programming, enhance technical expertise among secondary school students, and promote problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
Program Execution:
The program brought together 85 attendees, including 25 facilitators and committee members, 12 accompanying teachers, and 48 enthusiastic secondary school students. These participants formed 16 groups of three, representing different schools. Throughout the day, the students engaged in practical workshops on robotics, guided by mentors who assisted them in developing their Sumo robots. The program also included a small competition, allowing participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills in a friendly and supportive environment.
Collaborations:
The success of the JAZARI Community Service: Technity 23 program was made possible through fruitful collaborations with various organizations. The partnership with PPD Batu Pahat, SMK Dato' Sulaiman, and IEEE played a crucial role in ensuring the program's effectiveness. These collaborations facilitated connections between students from the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and government and non-government organizations involved in the field of robotics. Such collaborations fostered an enriching learning environment and provided valuable networking opportunities for the participants.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
The program aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal of "Quality Education." By offering hands-on experience in robotics, the JAZARI Community Service: Technity 23 program addressed the need to improve the quality of education in rural areas. It provided students with equal opportunities to develop their technological skills, bridging the gap between rural and urban education. Through this program, participants gained exposure to STEM concepts, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for technology, innovation, and problem-solving.
Conclusion:
The JAZARI Community Service: Technity 23 program successfully accomplished its objective of fostering interest and skills in robotics among students in rural schools. By providing practical knowledge in electronics and robotic programming, the program enhanced technical expertise and critical thinking among participants. It also served as a platform for students to showcase their abilities in a friendly competition, encouraging healthy competition and teamwork.
The program's impact extended beyond the workshop, empowering participants with skills and knowledge that will benefit them in their future endeavors. The exposure to robotics and STEM concepts contributes to the development of a technologically literate society, equipping students with the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Moving forward, the organizers of the JAZARI Community Service: Technity 23 program intend to expand and continue similar initiatives in the future. By reaching more students in rural areas, they aim to bridge the educational divide, promote equitable access to quality education, and contribute to the country's overall development.