Singapore International Science Camp: Nurturing Future Environmental Leaders
The NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI), in collaboration with the Asia Pacific Centre for Management Education (APCME), hosted the Singapore International Science Camp (SISC) from 10 July to 14 July 2024. This vibrant outreach and educational event was attended by high school students from 42 schools across 10 countries, including Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, India, China, US, Malaysia, Vietnam, France, and Japan.
Drawing on the vast experience and knowledge of Professor Sanjay Swarup, SISC Program Director and Director of NERI, the program brought together passionate & experienced Professors, Researchers, and Industry Experts from different fields under one umbrella to showcase the multi-disciplinary nature of sciences and inspire young students who are the custodians of our future.
A Comprehensive and Engaging Education
Revolving around the theme of sustainability and interdisciplinary research and education in science and engineering, program highlighted the applications of emerging technologies such as AI &ML, Genetic Engineering, Robotics, 3D Printing in creating a sustainable world. Weaved with variety of pedagogical elements, program provided an immersive experience to students through hands-on workshops, insightful lectures, engaging demonstrations, student-led discussions on current global challenges, enriching field visits to NUS Agritech Centre and the Net-Zero Energy Building - all curated by NERI and APCME to motivate the young scientists to tackle pressing environmental challenges.
A standout feature was the mentorship programme led by NUS postdoctoral researchers. This programme challenged students with unique problem statements, igniting their creativity. “Students constantly surprise me with their own projects and ideas!” remarked Dr Orlando García-Rodríguez. When asked about the camp's benefits, Dr Carl Angelo Medriano shared, “It offers students a platform to gain valuable global perspectives.”
Amidst the busy academic schedule, program excursions added a dash of excitement as participants explored multiracial fabric of Singapore during City Tour and witnessed science in action while enjoying the thrilling rides at Universal Studios.
NERI's Commitment to Outreach and Education
From NERI’s perspective, the Singapore International Science Camp is more than an educational programme; it is a strategic initiative to nourish the curious minds and cultivate future leaders in environmental sciences. By immersing students in a curriculum that emphasises interdisciplinary research and hands-on learning, the NERI aims to instil a good understanding of sustainable practices in them from young.
Adj Assoc Prof Ajay Pathania, Director of APCME, underscores the importance of such collaborations: "By focusing on emerging technologies and sustainability, we nurture students for the betterment of society through an interdisciplinary approach. This camp reflects our shared dedication to outreach and education, and fostering the next generation of environmental leaders."
Established in 2007, the NERI collaborates with government, industry, NGOs (non-governmental organisations), and leading academic partners to ensure its research and outreach consistently addresses real-world issues. By integrating these real-world collaborations into the camp’s curriculum, NERI ensures students are exposed to practical challenges and cutting-edge solutions.
As the camp concludes, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of these young enthusiastic scientists. Their innovative solutions and presentations mark a significant step towards inculcating a mindset of using science for the benefit of society & mankind at large. The program was described as “Outstanding”, “Spectacular”, “Awesome”, “Unique”, “Amazing”, “Inspirational” by the participants and is a testament that NERI stays steadfast in its commitment to promoting education and outreach in sustainability, dedicated to nurturing the young scientists of future generations.