VEX Robotics is an educational platform that combines science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to inspire students to learn and explore the world of robotics. It provides a hands-on experience for individuals of all ages to design, build, and program robots using VEX components, including motors, sensors, and a versatile metal construction system.

During my journey with VEX Robotics, I have gained valuable knowledge and skills that extend beyond the realm of robotics. Firstly, I have learned the importance of teamwork and collaboration. VEX Robotics encourages students to work in teams to design and construct robots, fostering effective communication, division of tasks, and cooperation among team members. Through this collaborative environment, I realized that diverse perspectives and skills can significantly enhance the overall outcome of a project.

Additionally, VEX Robotics has honed my problem-solving abilities. Building and programming robots often involve overcoming challenges and troubleshooting issues. I have learned to approach problems systematically, analyzing them from different angles and devising innovative solutions. This iterative problem-solving process has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of learning from failures.

Furthermore, VEX Robotics has enhanced my engineering and programming skills. I have gained hands-on experience designing mechanisms, understanding gear ratios, and optimizing robot performance. Programming robots using VEXcode has allowed me to delve into algorithms, logical thinking, and control systems. These technical skills have equipped me with a solid foundation in STEM disciplines.

Lastly, VEX Robotics has sparked my creativity and encouraged me to think outside the box. Building and programming robots present endless opportunities for rapid innovation and imaginative problem-solving. Whether designing a unique mechanism or finding unconventional solutions, VEX Robotics has nurtured my creativity and inspired me to push the boundaries of what is possible.

Without prior experience with VEX, our team gave our all in this competition, staying back in the robotics room whenever we could to tinker, improve and fix our robots. Within a short span of 3 months, we created a robot that could rival powerhouse teams and achieved 16th place overall nationally.

For more information, please watch the robot reveal video :D

PythonInFive, a Python programming workshop, aimed to inspire and empower over 70 students by introducing them to programming fundamentals. As one of the teachers and lesson material planners, this transformative experience provided invaluable lessons and skills that expanded my horizons as an educator and programmer.

The workshop allowed me to deepen my knowledge and expertise in Python programming. In preparing lesson materials, I delved into various Python concepts and explored ways to explain them effectively to beginners. I explained Python's syntax, data types, control flow, functions, and more through hands-on exercises and real-world examples. Teaching Python reinforced my mastery of the language and further solidified my programming skills.

Working with a diverse group of students with varying levels of prior programming experience required adaptability and flexibility in delivering the lessons. Each student had unique learning needs and challenges, which prompted me to tailor my teaching approach to accommodate different learning styles. I learned to quickly assess the class's understanding and adjust the pace and complexity of the material accordingly. This experience enhanced my ability to adapt to different learning environments and effectively communicate complex concepts to a wide audience.

Planning and delivering lessons for PythonInFive demanded the use of effective pedagogical strategies. I honed my skills in breaking down complex topics into digestible modules, designing interactive and engaging activities, and providing clear explanations. Developing comprehensive lesson plans and materials helped me structure the content logically and coherently. This experience enriched my pedagogical toolkit and taught me valuable teaching techniques.

Collaboration played a crucial role in the success of PythonInFive. Working alongside other teachers and organizers, I gained insights into effective communication and teamwork. Coordinating lesson plans, sharing ideas, and discussing teaching methodologies fostered a supportive and collaborative environment. These experiences allowed me to develop my interpersonal skills, including active listening, empathy, and constructive feedback. The workshop also provided opportunities to interact with enthusiastic students, further refining my ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and approachable.

Witnessing the transformation in students' understanding and enthusiasm for programming was incredibly rewarding. PythonInFive sparked their interest in coding. The workshop's impact on the students' lives left a lasting impression on me.

For more information, read this PDF here

While participating in the SUTD Big-D camp in collaboration with SUTD and SST, I faced numerous challenges and invaluable lessons. The camp aimed to foster an engineering mindset and encourage students to develop innovative solutions to real-world problems, specifically focusing on urban disasters. My group chose to tackle the issue of water shortages, and our solution was a device called "sTap" - an innovative tap that utilized AI and hardware to monitor water usage and control flow, reducing or stopping water leakage.

Throughout the three-day camp, we encountered various obstacles that tested our problem-solving abilities and teamwork. One major challenge was developing a functional prototype within the limited timeframe. We had to manage our time and resources carefully, ensuring each team member was assigned tasks that best utilized their skills. It required effective communication and coordination to ensure that everyone's efforts aligned towards a common goal.

We had to overcome technical challenges related to hardware and prototyping. We encountered several setbacks and failures during the development process, which tested our resilience and problem-solving skills. We learned to embrace failures as opportunities for growth and kept iterating and refining our design until we achieved a functional and reliable prototype.

The most important lesson I learned from this experience was the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Our team consisted of individuals with diverse backgrounds and skill sets, including engineering, design, and coding. We quickly realized that each team member brought unique perspectives and expertise to the table, and leveraging this diversity was crucial for our success. By combining our different strengths and working together, we were able to develop a comprehensive solution that addressed the water shortage problem effectively.

The SUTD Big-D camp also taught me the value of perseverance and tenacity. Despite facing time constraints, technical challenges, and moments of frustration, we remained determined and motivated to overcome obstacles. We learned to approach setbacks as learning opportunities and continuously sought feedback to improve our solution. This resilience and willingness to adapt were key factors in our team's success.

Our group's hard work and dedication ultimately paid off as we were awarded the prestigious Excellence Award. This recognition affirmed the balance we achieved across various design aspects and highlighted our commitment to excellence in problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation.

For more information, read this PDF here

As a member of the PSB board, I played a significant role in ensuring the success of the annual SST student investiture. This highly anticipated ceremonial event aimed to formally invest students into their respective leadership roles and foster a sense of unity and collaboration among different institutions.

One of my key responsibilities was overseeing the event's hospitality aspect. To strengthen inter-school bonds, we extended invitations to like-minded institutions, and I had the privilege of hosting the students from NUS High. Welcoming them with open arms, I took it upon myself to ensure their visit was enjoyable and memorable.

I organized a comprehensive tour of our school, showcasing SST's state-of-the-art facilities and unique learning environment. Through this tour, not only did we impress our guests, but we also fostered a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding. The visit allowed us to establish valuable connections with NUS High, creating future collaborations and partnership opportunities.

The investiture event also marked the end of my journey on the PSB board, making it an even more significant milestone for me. It was a bittersweet moment as I reflected on the experiences and memories I had gained while in SST. However, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter for my juniors.

As the Overall-In-Charge for Logistics and the class PSL of S1-04 during the SST Secondary One orientation, I faced various challenges that tested my leadership skills and ability to oversee the event successfully. One of the main challenges I encountered was the responsibility of passing down relevant skills and preparations to the logistics team. This task required me to effectively communicate and delegate tasks to ensure smooth execution of the orientation.

Coordinating the logistics for a multi-day event like the orientation was no small feat. I had to meticulously plan and organize various aspects, including venue setup, equipment arrangement, transportation, and resource allocation. Managing these logistics required careful attention to detail and the ability to handle unexpected situations promptly. I learned the importance of staying organized and adaptable, as last-minute changes and unforeseen challenges were inevitable.

Simultaneously, I was responsible for leading and guiding S1-04 throughout the orientation. This meant overseeing their activities and ensuring they followed the guidelines and schedule provided. It was a balancing act between being kind and firm. I recognized that being overly strict would make the experience less enjoyable for the secondary ones and hinder their ability to learn and grow from the orientation. Therefore, I had to strike a balance, maintaining a friendly and approachable demeanour while enforcing discipline when necessary.

Through this experience, I discovered the importance of effective communication and the power of leading by example. By demonstrating respect, patience, and a positive attitude, I was able to foster a supportive environment for both the logistics team and the secondary ones. Encouraging teamwork and collaboration among the logistics team was crucial in overcoming challenges and ensuring the smooth running of the event.

The SST Girls-In-STEM event was a significant VIA initiative organized by myself and the dedicated executive committee members of the Robotics Club. As the Chairperson of Robotics @APEX, I was entrusted with overseeing all aspects of the event, from logistics to lesson materials and collaborating with the PSB Leadership Board and SC Leadership Board to ensure a seamless experience. Throughout this journey, I encountered challenges, learned valuable lessons, and gained an enriching experience that shaped my leadership skills.

One of the foremost challenges I encountered was the realization that I needed help to handle every aspect of the event. Understanding the importance of distributing the workload evenly among team members was crucial to prevent burnout and to ensure the event's success. By effectively delegating tasks, we could leverage each individual's strengths and talents, creating a cohesive and collaborative environment.

Effective communication and coordination were paramount as the Girls-In-STEM event involved the collaboration of different schools and leadership boards. Overcoming logistical challenges, aligning schedules, and ensuring clear expectations were met required effective negotiation and adaptability. It was crucial to maintain open lines of communication to address concerns and maintain a shared vision.

Planning and executing an event of this scale demanded meticulous time management. Balancing academic commitments and extracurricular responsibilities was challenging but allowed me to enhance my organizational skills and prioritize tasks effectively. Adhering to strict timelines and setting realistic goals allowed us to achieve tangible progress and maintain the project's momentum.

Unexpected challenges inevitably arose during the planning and execution phases. Adapting quickly and embracing innovative solutions was vital to maintaining the event's progress. By remaining resilient and flexible, we overcame hurdles and delivered an event that exceeded expectations.

Organizing the SST Girls-In-STEM event was an immensely fulfilling experience. Witnessing the culmination of months of hard work and dedication was incredibly gratifying. The event brought together aspiring young minds and exposed them to the exciting world of STEM, fostering their passion and empowering them to break barriers. The collective effort and dedication displayed by the team and participants alike instilled a deep sense of pride and accomplishment.

As a leader, this experience reinforced the notion that successful events rely on effective teamwork, collaboration, and clear communication. It taught me the importance of leveraging the strengths of individuals and empowering them to take ownership of their responsibilities.

As the Chairperson of our school's robotics club, I had the incredible honour of welcoming and presenting to Mr Chan Chun Sing, the Minister for Education. The opportunity to showcase our club's values, vision, and mission to such a distinguished guest was exhilarating and challenging.

Leading up to the visit, our team meticulously prepared for the presentation. We wanted to highlight our members' innovative spirit and dedication, as well as demonstrate the positive impact robotics has on our education. We focused on showcasing our club's teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving values, emphasizing how these skills translate into real-world applications.

One of the significant challenges we faced was managing our limited time with the Minister. We wanted to make every second count, so we carefully planned a tour of the school that would allow him to see the various stages of our robotics projects. However, condensing our club's achievements into a brief tour took a lot of work. We had to carefully select the most impressive and impactful aspects to showcase, ensuring we left a lasting impression.

Another challenge was the pressure to deliver a flawless demonstration of our VEX robot. We wanted to demonstrate the culmination of our hard work and dedication, but there was always the lingering fear of technical glitches or unexpected mishaps. We practised countless times, fine-tuning our presentation to ensure we could confidently showcase our robot's capabilities without any hiccups.

Despite the challenges, the experience was gratifying. Interacting with Mr Chan Chun Sing and sharing our passion for robotics was an honour. It allowed us to strengthen our club's brand awareness outside of the school community and showcase our members' immense talent and potential.

As Chairperson, I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to represent our robotics club on such a significant occasion. The experience reinforced the importance of our club's mission and inspired us to dream bigger and work harder towards achieving our goals. We are now more determined than ever to continue making a positive impact through robotics education, both within our school and beyond.

The Tech for Good competition presented us with an incredible opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of intellectually disabled individuals. With the target audience of persons with Intellectual Disability (ID) in mind, we embarked on a transformative journey to develop Friendly, an AI-based Intelligent Social Companion app. In collaboration with MINDS (Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore) and T4G (Tech for Good), we created a solution to empower and support individuals with ID in improving their social skills and fostering positive interactions.

Our team harnessed the power of technology to create an inclusive and user-friendly app. Leveraging the Kivy cross-platform Python Framework, we crafted Friendly to cater specifically to the needs of persons with ID. Our development process involved numerous challenges and learning experiences, ultimately shaping the app's three major features.

  - [Conversation Simulator] One of the core pillars of Friendly was the conversation simulator, designed to help cultivate socially acceptable behaviours remotely. Developing an AI-powered system that could provide conversation prompts and accurately grade responses presented unique challenges. We delved into natural language processing techniques and behavioural analysis to create a robust simulator that guides users toward improved social awareness.

  - [Sign Language Neural Network] Recognizing the importance of inclusive communication, we incorporated a sign language recognition system into Friendly. Implementing a Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) Deep Learning model and optimizing it with the oneAPI Deep Neural Network Library (oneDNN) allowed us to bridge the communication gap and enable users with ID to express themselves through sign language. Fine-tuning and training the model with diverse sign language gestures posed technical hurdles, but our commitment to inclusivity drove us forward.

  - [Anti Spam Engine] To ensure a safe and focused learning environment, we integrated an anti-spam engine into Friendly. This entailed leveraging the OpenCV Computer Vision libraries to perform real-time template matching across different screens, enabling the app to accurately detect and prevent spamming behaviours. Developing this engine required meticulous fine-tuning and extensive testing, but the result provided users with a secure space for learning and growth.

Our dedication and perseverance paid off when Friendly clinched the most resilient award in the Tech for Good competition. This recognition not only highlighted our team's ability to overcome challenges but also showcased the immense potential of technology to impact the lives of intellectually disabled individuals positively. The Strait Times, a leading local newspaper, recognized our achievement and featured our project, spreading awareness and inspiring others to join the movement for inclusivity.

For more information, please look at the PDF of our presentation here

During the First Lego League competition, I faced numerous challenges and gained valuable experiences that helped me grow as both a team member and an individual. As the coder and builder of our team, I took on the responsibility of developing our robots and preparing them for the robot runs.

One of the major challenges I encountered was the time constraints. With equal amounts of time allocated for robot runs, slides, and the research project, it was crucial for me to manage my time efficiently. I had to balance my efforts between coding and building the robots, ensuring that they were capable of completing the required tasks on the playing field. This required meticulous planning and coordination with the rest of the team to optimize our progress.

Additionally, I faced the challenge of constantly improving my skills. As this was my second year participating in the competition, I had a better understanding of the technical aspects involved. However, I knew that I needed to further develop my coding abilities and refine my building techniques to increase our chances of success. I spent countless hours after school, dedicating myself to enhancing my skills and learning new strategies to improve our robot's performance.

The competition itself was a thrilling experience. Seeing our robots come to life and successfully complete the challenges on the playing field was incredibly rewarding. It was a testament to the hard work and dedication we had put into our preparations. However, there were moments of frustration and setbacks as well. Our robots encountered unexpected obstacles and sometimes failed to perform as expected. In these situations, I had to remain calm and problem-solve on the spot, adjusting the code and making necessary modifications to overcome the challenges.

Ultimately, our team's efforts paid off, and we were proud to receive the 2nd Runner Up Champions Award. The competition not only tested our technical skills but also taught us the importance of teamwork, communication, and critical thinking. Working together, we supported and encouraged each other, leveraging our individual strengths to achieve a common goal.

For more information, please look at the PDF of our presentation here

Our school was honoured to host distinguished guests, including the esteemed Minister for Transport, Mr S. Iswaran, and the CEO of the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Centre in Singapore, Mr Jung Hong Bum. As a member of our school's club, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to present to yet another minister, an experience that left a lasting impression on me.

During their visit, we had the privilege of engaging in a meaningful conversation with Mr Iswaran and Mr Jung, discussing our club's values, vision, and mission. We emphasized the importance of fostering innovation, creativity, and teamwork within our club and how these qualities contribute to the holistic development of our members.

To further showcase the spirit of our club, we took our distinguished guests on a tour of our school, allowing them to witness firsthand the vibrant atmosphere and dedicated efforts of our members. However, the highlight of the visit was the demonstration of our VEX robot.

Although our time together was brief, these priceless moments provided an extraordinary opportunity for our club to extend its brand awareness beyond the confines of our school. It was gratifying to witness the genuine interest and appreciation shown by Minister Iswaran and Mr Jung as they witnessed the passion and dedication of our club members.

This experience has instilled in members a sense of pride and motivation to continue striving for excellence within our club. It has also reinforced the significance of our work, reminding members that our efforts impact our school community and garner recognition and admiration from esteemed individuals such as Minister Iswaran and Mr Jung.

I am immensely grateful for the chance to represent our club and leave a lasting impression on these influential figures. The memories created during this visit will undoubtedly remind us of the importance of our club's mission and inspire us to reach greater heights in the future.

As the Logistics Overall-in-Charge for the annual Staff Appreciation Week at SST, hosted by the Peer Support Board, my responsibility was to ensure the smooth execution of the event by overseeing the supply of equipment, stage layout, and distribution of appreciation gifts and cards to all teachers and staff. All to express gratitude to the dedicated teachers and staff who make SST a special place. This role presented me with challenges and opportunities to develop vital skills such as communication, leadership, and long-term planning.

One of the key challenges I faced in my role was effective communication. Clear and timely communication was essential as the central point of contact for various teams involved in the event, including the Peer Support Board, teachers, staff, and external vendors. I had to coordinate with different stakeholders to gather their requirements, understand their expectations, and convey the necessary information to ensure everyone was on the same page. This experience taught me the importance of active listening, adaptability, and diplomacy in handling diverse perspectives and ensuring effective collaboration.

Organizing a week-long event required meticulous long-term planning. I had to anticipate the needs of the various teams involved and ensure that all necessary equipment and supplies were procured well in advance. This involved creating a detailed timeline, budgeting, and establishing efficient resource allocation and distribution channels. I learned to identify potential bottlenecks and develop contingency plans to address unforeseen circumstances, ensuring that the event ran smoothly and seamlessly.

My involvement in the Staff Appreciation Week as the Logistics Overall-in-Charge provided me with invaluable experience and personal growth. It sharpened my organizational and problem-solving skills, taught me to think on my feet, and reinforced the importance of adaptability in a dynamic environment. I learned to remain calm under pressure, prioritize tasks effectively, and embrace challenges as opportunities for personal and professional development.

During the SST Secondary One Orientation held in January 2023, I had the privilege of taking on two important roles: Overall-In-Charge for Logistics and Class PSL for S1-03. This experience provided me with valuable lessons in communication, leadership, and long-term planning, while also presenting its fair share of challenges.

As the Overall-In-Charge for Logistics, my primary responsibility was to ensure the smooth running of the event. This involved meticulous planning and coordination starting from October 2022. I had to ensure the timely procurement and supply of all the necessary equipment and resources, including arranging the layout for various games in the school. Additionally, I was entrusted with acquiring gifts for the incoming secondary ones, a task that required careful selection to make their orientation experience memorable.

One of the major challenges I encountered was managing the logistics within a limited budget. It required resourcefulness and creativity to find cost-effective solutions without compromising on the quality and experience for the secondary ones. Collaborating with suppliers, negotiating prices, and exploring alternative options were some of the strategies I employed to overcome this challenge.

Simultaneously, as the class PSL of S1-03, I had the responsibility of leading and guiding the students throughout the orientation activities. This role taught me the importance of being both kind and firm. While it may have been easier to adopt an overly strict approach, I quickly realized that building a positive rapport with the secondary ones was crucial for their transition into secondary school. By being approachable, friendly, and understanding, I aimed to create a supportive environment that allowed them to gradually adjust to the new school setting.

However, maintaining discipline was equally important. When some students misbehaved or deviated from the expected behavior, I had to step in and assert boundaries. Balancing kindness with firmness was a challenge, as I wanted to enforce discipline while also ensuring that the students learned from their mistakes. This experience taught me the delicate art of effective communication and the importance of setting clear expectations.

The First Lego League Competition allowed our team to delve into STEM concepts and foster critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills. As the main coder and builder, I was entrusted with developing a competitive robot capable of excelling in autonomous challenges. However, our journey was marred by an unexpected motor burnout, ultimately leading to a misallocation of priorities and costing us the competition.

Challenge 1: Motor Burnout and Inexperienced Building: The motor burnout that occurred in our robot was a setback that caught us off guard. As an inexperienced builder, I initially misattributed the issue to a coding flaw. In a rush to rectify the problem, I tweaked the values in the code without backing up the previous versions. This mistake prevented us from reverting the changes and adjusting the code to accommodate the new motor in time for the competition. One crucial lesson we learned was the importance of thorough troubleshooting and seeking assistance when encountering technical challenges. Instead of hastily assuming the cause of the issue, I should have consulted more experienced builders or sought guidance from mentors to diagnose and address the problem effectively.

Challenge 2: Misallocation of Priorities: While focusing on perfecting our robot runs, we should have paid more attention to the research and presentation aspects of the competition. This misallocation of priorities left us with little time to adequately prepare for the presentation, undermining our overall performance. The importance of striking a balance between different competition components cannot be overstated. We realized that dedicating too much time and effort to a single aspect, no matter how crucial, can jeopardize the overall success of our team. Effective time management and clear communication ensure that each component receives adequate attention and effort.

The First Lego League Competition provided valuable lessons shaping our approach in future endeavours. We recognized the significance of troubleshooting effectively, seeking guidance when encountering challenges, and maintaining a balanced allocation of resources. While our missteps cost us the competition, the experience has allowed us to grow and better understand the multifaceted nature of team-based projects. We are determined to apply these lessons to improve our problem-solving skills, teamwork dynamics, and project management abilities.

For more information, please look at the PDF of our presentation here

The National Robotics Competition (NRC), held annually by Science Centre Singapore, is an excellent platform that celebrates the ingenuity, imagination, and technical prowess of young individuals in Singapore. Participating in the OPEN category, my team and I embraced the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges, leading us to explore the question of generating electricity amidst Singapore's limited land resources. Our innovative solution involved utilizing a fleet of small boats with solar panels deployed at sea during the day to harness solar energy and act as wave motion generators at night. Using LEGO and Arduino technology, we presented our concept with a tangible prototype that exemplified our vision.

Engineering a Renewable Solution: The centrepiece of our solution revolved around a fleet of small boats equipped with solar panels. These boats venture to sea during the day, optimizing solar exposure to generate electricity through the captured sunlight. However, our concept did not stop there. We recognized the untapped potential of night-time wave motion and ingeniously repurposed the boats to act as floaters, moving up and down with the stronger night-time waves. This motion was harnessed to generate additional electricity through mechanical means.

We employed a mix of LEGO and Arduino technologies to bring our conceptual design to life. The LEGO components enabled us to construct a tangible representation of our fleet of boats, incorporating miniature solar panels and mechanisms to mimic wave-induced movement. Arduino microcontrollers were used to program the boats' behaviour, simulating their real-world functionality. The amalgamation of these technologies allowed us to showcase the feasibility and practicality of our solution while capturing the attention and curiosity of the competition's audience.

Open PDF of our research proposal here

The Science Exploration Challenge (SEC) provided an excellent platform for me to embark on a captivating research project titled "Investigation of the Power Output of Various Batteries." Throughout this exhilarating journey, I had the opportunity to delve into the world of scientific exploration and innovation, expanding my knowledge and honing vital skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and effective communication.

For my research project, I focused on investigating the power output of various batteries from different brands. By selecting five distinct battery types and monitoring their power output over time, I aimed to assess their quality and performance. This endeavour required meticulous planning, precise execution, and careful analysis of the collected data.

Throughout the research project, I diligently collected over 973 lines of data, meticulously recording the power output of each battery type at regular intervals. The extensive dataset enabled me to perform thorough statistical analyses, exploring patterns and trends in the power output over time. I utilized various tools and techniques to visualize and interpret the data effectively, allowing for meaningful conclusions to be drawn.

Undertaking this research project within the SEC framework gave me invaluable skills and personal growth opportunities. I enhanced my data collection, analysis, and interpretation abilities, while also refining my communication skills by presenting findings to judges and fellow participants. The experience instilled greater confidence in conducting scientific experiments and fueled my desire to pursue further studies and careers in STEM fields.

Open PDF of our data here

Open PDF of our research proposal here

The 2021 Innofest Challenge proved to be a transformative experience for our team of secondary two students. Within three days, we conceptualized and developed Fitable, an AI exercise app with landmark recognition to track workout progress. Little did we know that this initial spark of innovation would lead us on an exhilarating journey filled with achievements, recognition, and personal growth.

The three-day event pushed us to our limits, requiring us to create a solution from scratch. Despite the constraints, our determination fueled us to create Fitable, a unique exercise app that harnessed the power of artificial intelligence. We worked tirelessly, crafting a working prototype and a compelling business pitch. Our dedication and ingenuity paid off when we were honoured with several accolades, including the Best Innovative Idea Award, the Most Popular Team Award, and the Best Prototype Award. Moreover, our efforts secured us a remarkable second place in the Grand Finals, solidifying our belief in the potential of Fitable.

Buoyed by our accomplishments, we decided to carry forward the project as part of Project Serve at SST Inc. This opportunity allowed us to refine Fitable further, ironing out any flaws and enhancing its functionality. We were determined to make Fitable the best it could be, as we aimed to empower individuals to lead healthier lifestyles through technology.

Our commitment and perseverance bore fruit when we were awarded the prestigious Champions SST App of the Year for 2022. This recognition not only validated our hard work but also spurred us to continue our efforts to perfect the app. Fitable became a testament to our team's innovation, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

This journey, which began as a small three-day project, taught us invaluable skills that remain relevant to this day. We learned the importance of teamwork, effective communication, and time management. The experience also nurtured our problem-solving abilities and taught us to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Furthermore, we gained insights into the significance of user feedback and iterative development, continuously refining Fitable to meet user needs and expectations.

The story of Fitable exemplifies the transformative power of perseverance, collaboration, and innovation. What began as a brief challenge evolved into an award-winning app, propelling us to strive for excellence and make a positive impact. As we continue to perfect Fitable, we remain grateful for the lessons learned; the recognition received, and the endless possibilities.

Open PDF of our research proposal here

The 3M Innoscience competition held at SST stands as a pivotal moment in my life, igniting a passion for critical and creative thinking. This week-long event fostered an environment of exploration and innovation and introduced me to the incredible world of Arduinos – small yet mighty micro-computers. Through this enriching experience, I realised these tiny devices' vast potential, ultimately shaping my early interest in STEM subjects.

The moment I encountered Arduinos at the 3M Innoscience competition, I was captivated by their versatility and immense possibilities. These miniature computers, capable of interacting with the physical world through sensors and actuators, opened up an entirely new realm of creativity and problem-solving. It was like a door had swung open, revealing a universe where imagination and technology converged seamlessly.

The competition provided the ideal platform for hands-on learning with Arduinos. With expert guidance and resources, we were encouraged to delve into projects that merged our interests with technological innovation. From building automated systems to crafting interactive displays, the applications seemed limitless. Each day we brought new challenges and triumphs, pushing us to expand our knowledge and develop problem-solving skills.

My encounter with Arduinos at such an early age significantly shaped my passion for STEM subjects. The 3M Innoscience competition acted as a catalyst, sparking a curiosity that has continued to grow ever since. The opportunity to work with these micro-computers bolstered my technical knowledge and nurtured a deep appreciation for the power of technology to drive positive change.

The Innovation Programme (IVP) became the catalyst that ignited my passion for STEM and set me on a remarkable journey of discovery. As a young student attending primary school, I participated in this program, which aimed to inspire and engage students in the wonders of innovation and ideation. Looking back, I realize the IVP experience was pivotal in shaping my interests, honing my skills, and fostering a lifelong love for STEM.

Unveiling the Wonders of Innovation: The IVP program exposed me to a world of possibilities and introduced me to the wonders of innovation. I discovered the power of creative thinking and problem-solving through hands-on activities, interactive workshops, and engaging presentations. The program encouraged us to think outside the box, nurture our curiosity, and embrace the joy of exploring new ideas. During this program, I first realized the transformative potential of STEM disciplines and how they could positively impact the world around us.

Transforming Ideas into Solutions: One of the most exciting aspects of the IVP program was the opportunity to work in teams and develop our solutions to real-world challenges. Collaborating with fellow students, we brainstormed ideas, conducted research, and designed innovative projects that addressed various problems. The experience taught me the value of teamwork, effective communication, and the importance of considering diverse perspectives when finding solutions. We were challenged to think critically, adapt our approach, and embrace failure as a stepping stone towards success.

The IVP program also significantly enhanced my presentation and critical thinking skills. As we prepared to showcase our projects, we learned how to communicate our ideas to a wider audience effectively. We practised presenting our work, refining our public speaking abilities, and captivating listeners enthusiastically. Moreover, the program fostered a culture of questioning and analysis, encouraging us to approach problems from different angles and develop innovative solutions through analytical thinking.

My experience with the IVP program left an indelible mark on me, igniting a deep passion for STEM that continues to shape my academic and career choices. It instilled in me the belief that innovation knows no bounds, and through STEM, we have the power to change the world for the better. The program opened doors to countless opportunities, introduced me to mentors and role models, and laid the foundation for my ongoing educational and professional pursuits in STEM fields.

In my journey through primary school, I had the privilege of serving as the Vice-Head Prefect. This position allowed me to organize and lead various events, including Teachers' Day, Children's Day, National Day, and the Prefectorial Investiture. Although I received substantial assistance from teachers, this experience proved invaluable, shaping my communication skills and confidence and paving the way for my growth as a leader in the future.

As the Vice-Head Prefect, effective communication was pivotal in my day-to-day responsibilities. Coordinating with teachers, fellow prefects, and students required clear and concise articulation of ideas and objectives. I quickly realized that open and transparent communication fostered trust and collaboration among team members. Whether conveying event details, delegating tasks, or addressing concerns, my communication skills gradually flourished, enabling me to express myself confidently and build meaningful connections with others.

The lessons I learned as the Vice-Head Prefect continue to shape my leadership style today. The early exposure to organizing events, communicating effectively, and building confidence has been instrumental in my personal and academic growth. As I progressed through my educational journey, these experiences were a solid foundation for assuming leadership roles with conviction and passion. I recognize the importance of continued self-improvement and seek opportunities to refine my leadership skills, nurturing a positive impact on those around me.

Serving as the Vice-Head Prefect during my primary school years was a transformative experience. The opportunities I had to organize events and lead my peers honed my communication skills, bolstered my confidence, and instilled in me the essential habits of good leadership. These formative experiences have paved the way for me to be a confident and inspiring leader committed to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Up to 2% of students in each school who have demonstrated exemplary character and outstanding personal qualities through their behaviour and actions.

Up to 10% of students from each school who have demonstrated leadership qualities, service to community and schools, excellence in non-academic activities, and good conduct.

Students who are within the top 25% of their school’s level and course in terms of academic performance

Students who are within the top 25% of their school’s level and course in terms of academic performance.

Students who are within the top 25% of their school’s level and course in terms of academic performance

Students who are within the top 25% of their school’s level and course in terms of academic performance

Students who are within the top 25% of their school’s level and course in terms of academic performance

Excellence Award was the most prestigious award, given to the team that has shown excellence and balance in all fields of design. Their design has gone above and beyond, showing good consideration in more than areas of user experience, urban planning, innovation and sustainability.

The Perse Coding Team Challenge will test student's programming prowess as they battle it out against teams from across the UK for the Braben Cup.

The Perse Coding Team Challenge will test student's programming prowess as they battle it out against teams from across the UK for the Braben Cup.

The Oxford University Computing Challenge is an invitation event which aims to encourage students who have achieved a top 10% score in the UK Bebras Challenge to develop their skills further and produce programmed solutions to computational thinking problems.

The "SST App of The Year" award recognizes the most outstanding mobile application in terms of innovation, usability, and impact on users. With a highly competitive selection process, the award celebrates the app that has made a significant contribution to enhancing the user experience, pushing boundaries in technology, and setting new industry standards. The recipient of this prestigious accolade demonstrates excellence in both design and functionality, making it a trailblazer in the world of mobile applications.

Tech For Good (T4G) is an annual assistive technology innovation programme by non-profit organisation Engineering Good that celebrates the use of technology in enabling persons with disabilities and the elderly live a life of opportunities.

Our design was featured on the Straits Times

FIRST® LEGO® League guides youth through STEM learning and exploration at an early age. From Discover, to Explore, and then to Challenge, students will understand the basics of STEM and apply their skills in an exciting competition while building habits of learning, confidence, and teamwork skills along the way.

The Champions Award celebrates a team that embodies the FIRST ® LEGO® League Challenge experience, by fully embracing our Core Values while achieving excellence and innovation in Robot Performance, Robot Design and the Innovation Project.

Australian Informatics Olympiad (AIO) recognises and challenges students with an interest in computer programming. Participating students will need some programming experience and be able to write code.

BrainHack is a unique, hands-on experience into the swiftly evolving world of digital tech. Dive deep into the exciting realms of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), space technologies, app development, fake news detection, extended reality and more.

The Computational and Algorithmic Thinking (CAT) competition gives students the opportunity to develop their problem-solving skills through algorithmic thinking. The competition incorporates unique ‘three-stage tasks’ that encourage students to develop informal algorithms and apply them to test data of increasing size or complexity.

I was top 18% nationally

The Perse Coding Team Challenge will test student's programming prowess as they battle it out against teams from across the UK for the Braben Cup.

The ChangeMakers Programme for Lower Secondary students is designed to foster an changemaker mindset and innovative attitudes and attributes. The programme combines principles, knowledge, and skills from Art, Design, Media and Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Information and Communication Technology subjects. Students are taught to apply the SST ChangeMakers process as an essential part of the innovation process to enhance people’s lives.

For this project, we won the Best Innovative Idea Award, Most Popular Team Award, Best Prototype Award, as well as 2nd Place Grand Finals

Watch the video to learn more

The ChangeMakers Programme for Lower Secondary students is designed to foster an changemaker mindset and innovative attitudes and attributes. The programme combines principles, knowledge, and skills from Art, Design, Media and Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Information and Communication Technology subjects. Students are taught to apply the SST ChangeMakers process as an essential part of the innovation process to enhance people’s lives.

For this project, we won the Best Innovative Idea Award, Most Popular Team Award, Best Prototype Award, as well as 2nd Place Grand Finals

Watch the video to learn more

The ChangeMakers Programme for Lower Secondary students is designed to foster an changemaker mindset and innovative attitudes and attributes. The programme combines principles, knowledge, and skills from Art, Design, Media and Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Information and Communication Technology subjects. Students are taught to apply the SST ChangeMakers process as an essential part of the innovation process to enhance people’s lives.

For this project, we won the Best Innovative Idea Award, Most Popular Team Award, Best Prototype Award, as well as 2nd Place Grand Finals

Watch the video to learn more

The ChangeMakers Programme for Lower Secondary students is designed to foster an changemaker mindset and innovative attitudes and attributes. The programme combines principles, knowledge, and skills from Art, Design, Media and Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Information and Communication Technology subjects. Students are taught to apply the SST ChangeMakers process as an essential part of the innovation process to enhance people’s lives.

For this project, we won the Best Innovative Idea Award, Most Popular Team Award, Best Prototype Award, as well as 2nd Place Grand Finals

Watch the video to learn more

Participants will research and film a 3-5 minutes video to explain any STEM topic they can think of using the wide expanses of their imagination and intellect. For which, our project on "Investigation of the Power Output of Various Batteries" obtained honourable mention.

The 42nd International C. B. Paul Science Quiz 2021 was reconceptualised and launched in a new format on 19 February 2021 where both the Preliminary and Final Rounds were carried out from 11:30 to 18:00 (GMT+8).

Since 2015, 3M has partnered the School of Science and Technology, Singapore (SST) in the SST-3M InnoScience Challenge, which aims to inspire millennials to develop innovative ideas that could have a positive impact on our community and our future. Our team won the Best Presentation Award for our project

AI For Industry's Literacy in AI is a course which introduces modern AI technologies and applications so that the learner can be savvy consumers of AI products and services.

Upon completion of this course, the learner would have a good understanding of the basic concepts in AI.

The CISCO CyberSpark Programme is one of the projects under the Infocomm Media Club Student Development Programme which aims to provide opportunities for infocomm club members to deepen their knowledge of infocomm media. The CISCO Spark programme aims to increase the students’ knowledge and application skills in cybersecurity through a 40-hour course.

推广华文学习委员会与新加坡作家协会合作推展“驻校作家”计划，邀请本地知名作家到学校为学生提供华文写作的培训，以提高学生的写作能力，同时激发学生对文学鉴赏与创作的兴趣。

Apple Teacher is a self-paced professional learning programme. Build skills on iPad and Mac that directly apply to activities with your students and earn recognition for what you learn.