Space Camp 2024: Cultivating Tomorrow's Leaders through STEM Exploration (Part 1)

In an era where leadership is not just about guiding others but also about embracing innovation and technology, initiatives like space programmes at Dwi Emas International School in Shah Alam, Selangor, and Seri Jubli International School in Kluang, Johor, offer a unique blend of learning and leadership development. Both these camps brought together 153 participants, aged between 8 to 16. The primary objective of the space programmes were clear: to inspire and educate the next generation about space exploration, cybersecurity, robotics, and leadership, all while fostering creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. Over the course of the programmes, the participants were introduced to various concepts and activities that showcased the wonders of modern technology and its applications.

The Power of Hands-On Learning

The space camps weren’t just about imparting knowledge; it was about creating an environment where young minds could engage with a variety of components, material or equipment in a meaningful way. The camps were packed with activities designed to immerse participants in the world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) while simultaneously honing their leadership skills.

One of the standout activities was the Monument Simulation, where participants were challenged to build a structure that symbolised a monument. This task was more than just a test of their engineering skills; it required them to navigate a series of stations, completing various tasks to earn the components needed for construction. This activity was a microcosm of real-world leadership challenges, requiring creativity, teamwork, resourcefulness, and problem-solving—all critical skills for any aspiring leader.

Another highlight was the Astro-Currency War, a scavenger hunt where teams scoured the school’s lobby and upper levels in search of mini astronaut figures. The number of figures each team collected determined the quality of the prizes they could redeem. This activity wasn’t just about who could find the most astronauts; it was about developing strategic planning, time management, communication, and observational skills—key attributes that leaders need to excel in high-pressure environments.

Leadership through Problem Solving

Leadership is often tested in situations where quick thinking and effective communication are paramount. The Escape Room activity at Dwi Emas International School was a perfect example of this. Participants were tasked with breaking into a classroom, locating a hidden safe, and retrieving an item from it. This wasn’t your typical escape room; it was a reverse challenge designed to push the participants’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to the limit.

It required participants to crack a 3-digit lock code using clues and solve a 4-digit lock code by finding clues scattered around the room with the ultimate challenge of finding the safe and the key to open it. This activity was a lesson in collaboration, as the participants had to rely on each other’s strengths, communicate effectively, and work as a cohesive unit—skills that are indispensable in any leadership role.

Fostering Creativity and Innovation

Creativity is a cornerstone of leadership, and both these space programmes provided ample opportunities for participants to think outside the box. The Goose Chase activity was one such example, where participants had to complete a series of challenges within a stipulated time. These challenges ranged from taking pictures with hidden items to filming self-introductions in different languages, and even performing the iconic moonwalk.

What made Goose Chase particularly valuable was its emphasis on creativity and adaptability. Leaders are often faced with situations where they must think on their feet, and this activity helped participants develop the ability to do just that. By encouraging them to follow instructions while also adding their creative spin, this activity nurtured a mindset that is essential for leadership in the modern world.

Integrating STEM with Leadership

The space programmes weren’t just about leadership; it was also a deep dive into the world of STEM. The camp’s curriculum included several classes and modules designed to ignite a passion for science and technology while reinforcing the leadership skills developed in other activities.

In the Robo100 module, participants were given the challenge of building a robot from scratch using a digital visual guide. With no direct instructions, they had to rely on their ingenuity and teamwork to assemble the robot. Once the robots were built, participants had the opportunity to code them, making them faster and more powerful. This exercise wasn’t just about robotics; it was a lesson in perseverance, innovation, and collaboration—qualities that every leader must possess.

You got this, Queen!

In Seri Jubli International School, once the robots were assembled, the participants engaged in a miniature football challenge, maneuvering their newly built robots in a game that tested their control and precision. The teams pitted their robots against each other in a high-stakes battle to knock down a tower of Jenga blocks. The thrill of the competition, coupled with the satisfaction of seeing their creations in action, left a lasting impression on the young engineers.

Miniature football challenge

To initiate and develop the importance of curiosity, the ISS Class introduced participants to BMO, a robot located on the International Space Station (ISS). They were able to interact with BMO, customising its actions and movements, and even conducting experiments involving heat conduction and transfer. This module highlighted the importance of curiosity and experimentation, key traits for leaders in any field.

In the Cyber Security Class, participants learned about the critical role of cybersecurity in today’s world. They explored various job roles within the industry, the importance of strong passwords, and the fundamentals of hacking techniques—knowledge that is crucial for creating effective defenses against cyber threats. By integrating cybersecurity education with leadership training, this space programme equipped participants with the tools they need to navigate the digital landscape confidently.