Over 150 budding scientists from Mabel Park State High School have spent the last month building solar lights, water filters and prosthetic hands for people in developing countries.
The students, from years 7 to 10, participated in a program where they received an insight into real-world Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) jobs with the help of volunteers from Origin Energy, while also learning how to help address global challenges such as energy poverty and water sanitation.
One student said their favourite part the program was following detailed instructions to assemble prosthetic hands that will be donated to landmine amputee victims in developing countries.
“I now know more about engineering and how it helps people,” the student said.
Around 750 students from Mabel Park State High School have taken part in work readiness and STEM programs since 2015, with more that 125 volunteers from Origin Energy Foundation.
The head of maths and science at the school, Stacey King, said she was thrilled with the range of innovative learning opportunities the students were given, which would give them the chance to make a “significant difference in the lives of children less fortunate”.
“Our partnership with Origin has shown students that anything is achievable. It has opened their eyes to a future of possibility,” Ms King said.
“We all know the saying, ‘If you can see it, you can be it’.”
Senior Manager of Origin Energy Foundation Specialist Programs, Tania Carlos, said the Origin volunteers found it “incredibly rewarding” to see the impact of real-world STEM learning for the students.
“[Especially] as they become global citizens…Â and discover how science and engineering can improve people’s lives,” Ms Carlos said.
“We are so proud to support the students of Mabel Park State High School and hope the programs help to inspire more young people to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering or maths.”
