Usm Introduces The Wonders Of Dna To Year 6 Students Of Penang School

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SIXTY Year 6 students at Sekolah Kebangsaan Bukit Gelugor were recently given a closer look at the science behind human life through a programme called Discover the World of DNA.
Organised as part of the STEM Youth Programme 2025 @ School, the session was a collaboration between the Akademi Sains Malaysia (ASM) Northern Chapter, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and SK Bukit Gelugor.
The programme aimed to introduce basic genetics in a way that was both educational and engaging. It began with a short interactive talk led by Dr Asmida Isa, senior lecturer at the Institut Perubatan dan Pergigian Termaju (IPPT), USM and member of the Young Scientist Network – ASM.
Using upcycled models and everyday analogies, the session helped students understand how DNA influences traits, health, and even agriculture.
“The students were very responsive and curious. They were especially excited during the DNA extraction activity, and I hope that sense of wonder stays with them,” said Dr Asmida.
One of the highlights was a quiz session designed in the style of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire”, where students answered questions on tablets. Small science-themed prizes were given out to those who answered correctly.
The session continued with a hands-on experiment where students extracted DNA from strawberries using common household items like soap, salt, and alcohol.
In small groups, they followed simple steps to release and observe DNA strands. For most of them, it was their first time seeing what scientists call the “code of life”.
“It was a meaningful experience for our students. The programme made learning more interactive and enjoyable. I hope more such initiatives will be held in the future,” said SK Bukit Gelugor headmaster Fazlee Yahaya.
Students also participated in simple genetic games and brought home a colourful bracelet representing genetic variation. Each child received their own DNA kit to continue exploring the experiment at home.
The event was officiated by Professor Dr Habibah A. Wahab FASc, Chair of ASM Northern Chapter and USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation). Other USM lecturers and YSN-ASM members were also present to run additional STEM-related activities, covering topics in Physics, Chemistry and Biology.
By making science accessible at an early age, Discover the World of DNA hopes to inspire more young Malaysians to explore STEM fields with confidence and curiosity. ‒  Focus Malaysia

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