The Smart Scientist: Introduction to Biodegradable Food Packaging program is a school holiday program that has been running for two days from 27 February to 28 February 2024 at the UPM Faculty of Food Science and Technology. The program organized by the FoodPack research group is led by Prof. Associate Professor Dr Nur Hanani Zainal Abedin was accompanied by 44 school students between the ages of 9 and 13 who were assisted by 13 facilitators. Various activities carried out throughout the program involve introduction to packaging materials, preparation of biodegradable packaging materials, exposure to smart packaging, and art activities related to food packaging.

This program is a useful filling for students during the school holidays because a program like this has successfully exposed students to research on biodegradable food packaging. In addition, this Smart Scientist program can also uncover school students' interest in research in line with the Malaysian Ministry of Education's goal to foster students' interest in STEM-based programs.

The implementation of a program like this is also able to indirectly increase the visibility of UPM, especially FSTM, among the younger generation related to academics and research in related fields. In addition, it also provides opportunities for pre- and post-graduate students to gain experience in organizing programs with the community. Through the survey conducted, it was found that the participants gave positive feedback regarding this program with 82% of them expressing interest in participating in a similar program in the future.

Report prepared by: Nurul Azlin Tokiman Smart Scientist Facilitator and FoodPack member of the Faculty of Food Science and Technology

Date of Input: 24/05/2024 | Updated: 24/05/2024 | nur_jasni