Event: Program STI 100³ (100 Saintis, 100 Sekolah, 100 Hari)
Theme: Hydrophonic Garden
Venue: Sekolah Kebangsaan Paya Redan
Sponsor: Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI)
Date: 21, 28 and 29 February 2026
Pagoh, February 2026 – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), through the Faculty of Science and the Innovation Centre in Agritechnology for Advanced Bioprocessing (ICA) at UTM Pagoh Branch Campus, successfully conducted the STI 100³: Hydroponic Garden Program in collaboration with Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Paya Redan, Pagoh. The program aimed to introduce primary school students to modern agricultural technology, particularly hydroponic farming, as a practical STEM learning approach.
The initiative provided early exposure to sustainable food production and the application of science in agriculture, in line with the national Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) agenda led by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). Through hands-on activities, students were able to learn scientific concepts by directly participating in planting and crop management.
The program involved 50 upper primary students, 12 teachers, and 5 ICA UTM staff members, supported by the school community and representatives from the Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG). The program was led by Dr. Raihana Ridzuan, representing the Innovation Centre in Agritechnology for Advanced Bioprocessing (ICA), UTM Pagoh, who is also a Senior Lecturer from the Department of Biosciences, with strong support from the Headmaster of SK Paya Redan, Mr. Khairul Izam bin Abd Samat, and the school coordinator, Mr. Aizuddin bin Haduri.
Students participated in three key modules delivered through Garden Talk sessions and practical activities: Seed Germination Basics, Introduction to Hydroponic Systems, and Vegetable Pest and Disease Management. These sessions enabled students to understand planting techniques, hydroponic system components, nutrient management, and sustainable pest control methods.
Overall, the program enhanced students’ understanding of STEM applications while fostering interest in modern agriculture and sustainable food production. The success of the STI 100³ Hydroponic Garden Program highlights the importance of university-school collaboration in nurturing a new generation that is knowledgeable in science, technology, and agricultural innovation.
