A team of 13 students from Cheng Yu Tung College (CYTC) of the University of Macau conducted the sixth Service Learning Program in Malacca, Malaysia, from 1 to 11 June. The program aimed to provide innovative educational experiences through a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) camp for underprivileged children at the Montfort Youth Centre and Fatima Home.

CYTC has been running voluntary teaching programs at the Livio Learning Centre (LLC) in the Portuguese Settlement of Malacca since 2016. This year’s science camp moved beyond traditional classroom methods, incorporating interactive games and experiments to guide children in exploring scientific principles. The team specially designed an “Encouragement Card” system, using cards like “Ph.D. Card” and “Answer Master Card” to reward students for active participation and high-quality answers, and “Polite Card” and “Helpful Card” to reinforce positive behavior and attitudes, providing affirmation and feedback.

At the Montfort Youth Centre, participants built saltwater batteries that successfully powered small cars, experiencing the joy of scientific discovery. Children at Fatima Home engaged in ice-breaking activities, a visit to the Mamee Factory, and STEM workshops, fostering teamwork and scientific thinking.

Jeremy, Chairperson of Fatima Home, highlighted that the centre currently cares for 16 single-parent or orphaned children from across the country who need societal support. He expressed gratitude to the CYTC team for using unconventional teaching methods to stimulate the children’s potential and for bringing them warmth and companionship. Administrator Julia Lau added that the STEM camp not only imparted knowledge but also strengthened the spirit of mutual support among participants through group competitions.

The 6th Service Learning Program in Malacca have two Malaysian program leaders. One of the leader Wong Xin Ru stated that the program deepened her understanding of STEM education and reinforced her belief that education must “ignite interest and confidence.” Team Leader Chloe Chan emphasized that course designs – such as Morse code and circuit assembly activities – boosted learning motivation through real-life applications.

Special thanks were extended to The Shore Hotel & Residences in Melaka for its sponsorship support. The college emphasized that students significantly developed seven core competencies, including Responsible Citizenship, Global Competitiveness, etc., through the service program, embodying UM’s commitment to whole-person education.

Remark:

• Picture 1: Students from Montfort Youth Centre and Cheng Yu Tung College
• Picture 2: CYTC mentors guide Fatima Home children in building saltwater battery-powered cars and understanding the principle.
• Picture 3: Participants learning circuit principles through games.
• Picture 4: The team’s specially designed “Encouragement Card” system rewards students for active participation, quality answers, positive behavior, and attitudes, affirming their efforts.
• Picture 5: Students and mentors from Fatima Home and Cheng Yu Tung College