Caring Club IIUM promotes interest in science and technology among ‘asnaf’ and orphans

By Nur Najia binti Nazri 

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 December 2023: An educational and entertaining trip to the National Science Centre, entitled, ‘Young Scientist’ was organised by the Caring Club IIUM in collaboration with Rumah Penyayang Darul Ilmi Gombak. The trip took place on Saturday, 9 December 2023.

It involved a total of 25 orphans and asnaf children as well as two orphan caregivers. The children were guided by 21 Caring Club IIUM committee members throughout the trip. 

Assistant Programme Manager for the Young Scientist programme, Nur Effa Tania binti Hazlan mentioned, “The objective of this programme is to expose the children to the amazing wonders of science and technology by allowing them to learn and explore the National Science Centre.”

“It is difficult for the children of orphanages to visit attractions that charge entrance fees. Thus, this programme will provide them with the opportunity to learn basic science concepts in an interactive form,” she added.

The science centre had several exhibits, interactive displays, and hands-on activities which showcased various scientific concepts and advancements such as natural disasters and the four elements of nature.

The focus of the programme was on three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Quality Education (Goal 4), Gender Equality (Goal 4), and Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (Goal 9).

The Young Scientist programme was successful as it received enthusiastic responses from participants as well as wholehearted dedication from both committees and orphan caregivers in ensuring the holistic self-development of orphans and asnaf children was met. 

“I am so proud of (my) IIUM brothers and sisters because all of them are so kind throughout the programme. I also respect and am thankful to all facilitators,” mentioned a nine-year-old participant, Farid Hakimi.

The Young Scientist programme was funded by IIUM’s Centre for Community Engagement and Services (CENSERVE), through crowdfunding and donations made by individual sponsors.***