Fostering international collaboration in health science education in empowering the school community: outcomes of the UiTM and Universitas Airlangga partnership and its contribution to SDG 3, 4 & 17

The decline in interest in STEM fields among Malaysian students reflects a worrying trend that could have profound implications for the country's competitiveness and economic resilience in the future. Therefore, this current study is conducted to increase awareness in the STEM field by providing knowledge through engaging lectures and hands-on experiments. This half-day programme involved twenty staff from UiTM Bertam Campus and Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia and fifty-one private secondary school’s students in Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang. This programme involved 2 slots whereby the talk on awareness on thalassemia and drug addiction was conducted (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being) followed by hands-on experiments related to medical laboratory technology (SDG 4: Quality Education). The post-test questionnaire was given to the participants after the programme was completed. The results demonstrate substantial enhancements in participants' understanding and interest in the STEM module. Additionally, the international collaboration with Universitas Airlangga (SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals) enhances the learning experience, broadening students' perspectives and promoting a global approach to scientific education. In summary, this educational programme effectively raises STEM awareness among students. Hands-on experiments and engaging lectures on relevant scientific topics stimulate students’ interest in science and technology.