Shaping the Scientists of Tomorrow

As written by Rtr. Hemangi Wimaladharma

“Education is the passport to the future; for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”
-Malcolm X

Keeping these wise words in mind, Rotaract Club of University of Moratuwa embarked on an endeavor to enrich young minds through SciWiz, a series of science workshops organized for O/L students. Being a sub-project of Nena Aruna, the project was initiated with the aim of broadening the knowledge and providing guidance for students in grades 10 and 11 by conducting interactive science workshops.

“The science of today is the technology of tomorrow.”
-Edward Teller

Being the undergraduates of Sri Lanka’s leading technological university, it is indeed a duty of the Rotaractors of University of Moratuwa to join hands and take up the task of enhancing the knowledge of science within the young generation of the country. The workshops were conducted in two sessions, with each held over a span of two days and eight hours per day. The first session was held at Malamulla Maha Vidyalaya, Panadura on the 23^rd and 24^th of February and the second session was held at Sri Jina Dharmadana Vidyalaya, Panadura on the 9^th and 10^th of March.

At each workshop, students were taught the basics of electricity and electronics to help them get a better understanding of the electronic applications. Students were provided with tutes compiled by the Rotaractors themselves, which included theory and practical material as well as model questions.

Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I learn. Involve me and I remember.
– Benjamin Franklin

Alongside learning the theory behind electricity and electronics, students were given the opportunity to experiment with various electronic applications. They were divided into groups of four and a multitude of equipment such as breadboards, multimeters and circuit components were provided for them to carry out the practicals on their own. The curious young minds were eager to get their hands on various electronic components and actively took part in the sessions under the guidance of the Rotaractors.

Each workshop drew to a close with a few words of encouragement providing inspiration and motivation for the students to conquer the challenge they are about to face; the GCE O/L examination. The Rotaractors’ efforts were met with positive feedback from the students, driving us forward to continue our meritorious attempt at educating young minds.