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You are here: Home / Archives for science and technology

science and technology

Youth Innovation in Action: Meet Singapore’s Young Changemakers

Nadya Sharfina · July 18, 2025 · Leave a Comment

"Some of the most meaningful innovations start with a school project and a big question: how can we make life better?"

Innovation isn’t just happening in labs or boardrooms, it’s taking shape in classrooms, school projects, and even after-school conversations. Across Singapore, children and teenagers have been coming up with creative ways to tackle real challenges.

Some have built tools to make daily life more inclusive, while others have designed tech that helps their peers better understand one another. These ideas may start small, but they’re thoughtful, practical, and often deeply rooted in personal experience.

1. Turning Bullying Into a Learning Game

Photo by STEMIE Advantages

When Joeson Toh was in Primary 3, he witnessed a moment that stayed with him: a smaller-sized student being pushed around by someone much bigger. He didn’t step in at the time, but the memory stayed. Having gone through bullying himself, Joeson understood how deeply it could affect someone. He didn’t just want to forget it. He wanted to act.

As he got older, he began to notice that bullying wasn’t always loud or obvious. Sometimes it happened with words, other times online, where it was harder to see but just as harmful. It could affect how they saw themselves. That idea led him to build something meaningful. 

He created a game called Kai Wins, an interactive experience designed to help students better understand the emotional impact of bullying. Through storytelling and gameplay, the game encourages players to think about what others may be going through. Joeson used Scratch, a free coding platform, to build it from the ground up. The process was tough, and at one point, he almost gave up. However, encouragement from teachers and mentors helped him push through the challenges.

He kept improving the prototype and testing different features and ideas. That persistence was recognised at the 2023 Pratt & Whitney Singapore Invention Convention (PWSIC), where Joeson received the Dare to Invent Award. The award recognises a student who takes on a tough issue with courage and thoughtful problem-solving.

Held over two days in November 2023, the convention brought together more than 240 student inventors from Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines, each presenting solutions to real-world problems. 

For more insight on bullying, check out this article: Steps to Take If Your Child Is the Bully. 

2. Smart Glasses That Help People Hear With Their Eyes

Photo by news.samsung.com

At the 2024 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition, a pair of students from Anglo-Chinese School came away as the grand winners with an idea that could make a real impact for people with hearing loss. Their invention, called SilentGuide, is a pair of smart glasses that transcribes spoken words into subtitles in real time.

Designed by Aiden Lim and Karan Gopu Pillai, the glasses were built to support individuals with hearing difficulties by helping them better follow conversations in everyday settings. With SilentGuide, users don’t need an internet connection. Spoken words are picked up through a tiny I2S microphone, which sends the audio to a Raspberry Pi 4 tucked into the device. The system processes everything on the spot and displays the subtitles on a small OLED screen built right into the glasses.

This practical and accessible approach means the device could be useful in a wide range of situations from chatting with friends to navigating public spaces. With around 500,000 people in Singapore living with some form of hearing loss, the potential reach of the invention is significant.

Their team, named RedBlueGold, received $7,000 in cash and $10,000 worth of Samsung products to continue developing the idea and bring it closer to real-world use. The judges were impressed not only by the technical skill behind the project but by the thought the team put into how it could meet a real social need.

The Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition is designed to give secondary school students a platform to share ideas and use technology to improve everyday life. Aiden and Karan’s project stood out because it tackled a challenge that often goes unseen and they found a creative way to make communication a little easier for those who need support hearing.

3. Smarter Traffic Lights, Kinder Streets

Photo by Shintaro Tay

For many of us, crossing the road is a quick, automatic act, but for someone using a wheelchair or walking aid, even a green light might not feel like enough time. That’s exactly what caught the attention of three students from the Institute of Technical Education’s School of Electronics & Info-Comm Technology. After seeing how older pedestrians and people with mobility challenges often struggle to tap the Green Man+ reader or complete their crossings before the light changes, they decided to rethink how our traffic lights could better support everyone.

Calling themselves Team Mobility, the students came up with a thoughtful AI-powered upgrade to Singapore’s pedestrian crossing system. Their idea: use a smart camera installed on traffic lights to detect when someone is using a wheelchair, walking aid, or blind aid. When spotted, the system automatically extends the green man time, giving pedestrians more room to cross safely and calmly. For those with visual impairments, the light will also activate its audio signal. If someone is still mid-crossing when the timer runs out, it extends again.

What sets this apart is that the system works in real time. The camera recognises specific mobility aids using Huawei’s ModelArts AI platform, which has been trained to identify these objects and respond instantly. There’s no need to fumble with a card reader, the system is built to observe, understand, and respond quietly in the background.

In October 2023, this project won first prize and S$15,000 at the Tech4City competition organised by Huawei International, along with an extra S$3,000 for best innovation in mobility, sponsored by SBS Transit. More than the awards, the students hope their idea encourages people to show more patience and care. As they observed, reactions from drivers can sometimes be less than polite when delays happen, so their project also serves as a reminder that small delays can mean a great deal to someone who simply needs a little more time.

4. Hwa Chong Students Shine in Engineering Innovation Challenge

Photo by hci.edu.sg

On 26 August 2023, students from Hwa Chong Institution (HCI) swept the top three prizes at the Engineering Innovation Challenge (EIC), a national competition that drew 137 teams, including participants from overseas. The event, themed “Shaping a Circular Economy through Engineering,” challenged students to design prototypes that could help cities like Singapore become more resilient and sustainable.

The first prize went to Team J-17, whose project focused on rethinking pharmaceutical packaging. Their idea? Turn food waste into starch-based biodegradable plastic, an eco-friendly alternative to conventional packaging used in medicine. It was a clever blend of science and sustainability, showing how engineering can help reduce waste in ways that are both practical and meaningful.

Second place went to Team J-19, who studied how wave attenuation devices could be used to manage coastal erosion, an increasingly relevant concern for island nations like Singapore. Meanwhile, Team J-18 earned third place with BotaniCube, a prototype that explored urban farming systems for city spaces.

The awards were presented by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, who recognised the creativity and hands-on thinking demonstrated by the young teams. For the students, the experience went far beyond competition. One team shared that working with bioplastics taught them how even simple materials can be part of bigger solutions, a reminder that fresh thinking often starts with everyday things.

5. A Vending Machine That Makes Recycling Fun for Kids

Photo by newfortunetimes.com

Recycling might not sound like the most exciting activity to a five-year-old, unless it comes with a bunny-shaped vending machine and snacks. That’s exactly what Team MFL, a group of students from the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), brought to life at Sustainable Innovation Asia 2025.

Their invention, called BINNY, is an interactive vending machine shaped like a bunny that gives out treats when children deposit recyclable items. Designed with kindergarteners in mind, BINNY turns recycling into a hands-on and rewarding activity. It’s a clever way to introduce young kids to sustainability in a way they can understand and enjoy.

Team MFL’s idea stood out at the event, earning them the People’s Choice Award, thanks to its fun concept and practical impact. Parents, educators, and industry professionals at the event were drawn to how the project blends environmental education with something as simple and familiar as a snack machine.

BINNY was part of a larger platform encouraging students to explore real-world issues through creativity. Organised under the SDTA Youth Chapter, this initiative supports students from ITE, polytechnics, and universities in bringing their ideas to life. Backed by Enterprise Singapore’s SWITCH platform, Go Green SG, and the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth’s SG Youth Plan, the programme reflects a growing effort to make innovation accessible and relevant to the next generation.

Check out more inspiring articles for kids and teens: George Goh Ching Wah: The Successful Journey from Factory Sweeper to Billionaire, and Greta Thunberg’s Influence on Today’s Teen Climate Activists.

Discover the Science of Senses, Sleep, and Dreams with Rex the Dinosaur!

Nadya Sharfina · November 29, 2024 · Leave a Comment

“Join Rex the Dinosaur on an epic journey through the worlds of STEAM at the festival, where fun and learning come together to ignite curiosity and inspire young minds!”

The STEAM Festival is back and more exciting than ever! This year, kids can join Rex the Dinosaur on an epic journey, exploring the fascinating worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).

From 29 November to 15 December 2024, the festival will run daily, with sessions from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Families are invited to explore a world of discovery, designed to ignite curiosity and inspire young minds. With a perfect balance of fun and learning, the festival offers engaging, hands-on experiences that are sure to captivate everyone.

About STEAM Festival 2024: The Secret Life of Rex

Photo by science.edu.sg

At the STEAM Festival 2024, your child will have the chance to meet Rex, a little dinosaur with big dreams, and journey into his secret world. Rex may be small, but his curiosity is limitless, and he’s eager to share some truly fascinating discoveries with young explorers like your child. This year’s festival offers a unique opportunity for children to dive into the wonders of science in a fun and engaging way.

Throughout the event, children will uncover the science behind our five senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell—and gain a deeper understanding of how we interact with the world around us. They’ll also explore the mysterious realm of sleep and dreams, learning about how our brains work while we rest and why dreams are such an intriguing part of our lives. It’s a chance for kids to discover how these processes influence the way we think, feel, and experience the world each day.

One of the key themes of the festival is the importance of developing healthy sleep habits. Through interactive, hands-on activities, children will learn how proper sleep influences everything from mood to memory and concentration. This part of the experience will encourage kids to reflect on their sleep routines and understand why rest is essential for both their physical and mental well-being.

The STEAM Festival 2024 is packed with fun and educational activities designed to engage and inspire. The immersive, interactive formats make learning feel like an adventure, allowing children to explore scientific concepts in a playful and meaningful way. Beyond just fun, the festival provides a platform where kids can develop their creativity, confidence, and critical thinking skills. By participating, they’ll gain a deeper sense of curiosity about the world and leave with a greater appreciation for the science that shapes their everyday lives.

Explore, Learn, and Play

Photo by sg.bookmyshow.com

Inside the festival, children can explore various hands-on zones, each crafted to engage their imagination and bring science to life in exciting and interactive ways.

One of the highlights is Rex’s Perceptual Playground, a space where optical illusions come to life. Kids will enjoy mind-boggling visuals and have the opportunity to create their own illusion crafts, experimenting with perception in this fun, hands-on zone. They can also watch animations spring to life

Another must-visit is Rex’s Dreamscape, where children can step into a surreal infinity mirror portal, chat with Rex about dreams, and take part in a fun pillow-throwing game. For those who enjoy a challenge, there’s also a giant puzzle to solve, encouraging teamwork and critical thinking in a playful environment. 

The Whimsical Walkway offers a playful, photo-worthy hallway filled with optical illusions. It’s a space where children can marvel at visual tricks and snap pictures with their family, all while learning about how our brains interpret the world around us. 

In Nighty Night Neurons!, kids can unleash their creativity by designing their own nighttime projections. Featuring artworks created by children from the community, this experience allows young ones to scan their creations and watch them come to life in a magical seascape of dreams projection. It’s a unique way to showcase the power of imagination and the beauty of shared creativity.

At the KidsSTOP™ Gallery, children can dive into a wide variety of hands-on activities, timed programs, and themed experiences. 

Finally, in The Rex Factory, children can purchase unique festival souvenirs, including the chance to buy and customize their very own adorable Rex Plushie. Additionally, with any STEAM Festival ticket purchase, you’ll receive a 5% discount on merchandise preorders made online—though be sure to act fast, as stocks are limited!

How to Meet Rex the Dinosaur

Photo by sg.bookmyshow.com

This incredible experience is specially designed for children aged 18 months to 8 years old. If you have older children who are 9 years or above, they can still join the fun by purchasing an adult ticket to the STEAM Festival. Tickets are priced from S$37.50.

Mark your calendars: the festival will run from 29 November to 15 December 2024, with daily sessions from 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm. Hosted at KidsSTOP™, Science Centre Singapore (located at 15 Science Centre Rd, Singapore 609081).

Don’t miss out on this adventure! Book your tickets and find more information here. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with Rex the Dinosaur at the STEAM Festival 2024! 

For more of the best places to visit with family in Singapore, check out March Holidays: 5 Epic Activities in Singapore!, Big Fun: Five Awesome Activities for Kids in SG, and Best Restaurants with Play Areas in Singapore.

NFTs and Society: Pioneering a New Era of Possibilities

Nadya Sharfina · April 7, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"NFTs have already begun to be used in a variety of ways, from raising money for charity to being sold as collectibles. "

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are new digital assets that have begun to revolutionise how we think about and interact with ownership, identity, and economy. NFTs are the modern way for people to express themselves and share ideas. They are unique in that they cannot be replicated, meaning each one is entirely individual and can hold immense value. NFTs have already begun to be used in a variety of ways, from raising money for charity to being sold as collectibles. 

Because NFTs are so new, their future is uncertain, but there is potential for them to become very popular as more people learn about them. This article explains what NFTs are and what implications they have for the future of society.

What Are NFTs and How Do They Work?

Photo by Choong Deng Xiang on Unsplash

NFTs are blockchain-based digital assets representing art, music, videos, or other forms of media. NFTs use cryptography to ensure that each asset is unique and can be securely tracked and transferred from one owner to another. This technology has enabled NFTs to become a medium for creating non-fungible tokens that have tangible value in the modern economy.

As NFT technology continues to gain traction, it could potentially be used to create digital identities for individuals or organizations with secure tracking mechanisms. This could help ensure that no one’s personal information is shared without consent, while still allowing them to authent.

The History of NFTs

Photo by Art Rachen on Unsplash

NFTs have a long and varied history, with the concept being first proposed back in 2012. Since then, there has been a lot of experimentation and development in the space, with platforms such as Ethereum gaining ground as leaders in NFT technology. 

NFTs have grown in popularity and are now being used in a variety of different fields such as gaming and finance. NFTs can also be used to verify ownership of intellectual property or digital art and music. They are also being used to tokenize physical objects such as real estate, cars, and jewelry. NFTs have the potential to revolutionize how society views ownership, identity, and the modern economy.

How NFTs Are Changing the Way We Think About Ownership, Identity, and Economy

Photo by Barbora Dostálová on Unsplash

NFTs are changing the way we think about ownership, identity, and economy by allowing individuals to own digital assets securely and with more confidence. NFTs can be used to tokenize physical objects, giving them tangible value in the modern economy. NFTs also have implications for society as a whole, as they could potentially revolutionize how people interact with ownership and identity on a broader scale. 

NFTs could provide new opportunities for entrepreneurs, creators, social media influencers, and other users to monetize their work without relying on third-party intermediaries. NFT technology could also open up new markets for investors looking for alternative asset classes or ways to diversify their portfolios.

NFTs may even change the way we interact with each other in modern society by allowing us to authenticate our identities securely on a blockchain-based platform. As NFT technology continues to develop, it is worth keeping an eye out for what implications these revolutionary assets will have for the future of society.

What Are the Benefits and Risks Associated with Investing in NFTs?

Photo by Arstin Chen on Unsplash

NFT investing carries both potential benefits and risks. NFTs can provide investors with access to alternative asset classes that are not typically available through traditional methods, as well as diversification in their portfolios. NFTs could also open up new markets, allowing investors to invest in works of art, music, and other digital assets.  However, NFT investments come with the same risk factors associated with any type of investment – such as market volatility and liquidity risk. 

NFT investments are also subject to the same regulatory requirements as traditional investments. Therefore, investors should always do their research before investing in NFTs. Ultimately, investors need to recognize both the potential benefits and risks associated with NFT investing before making any decisions.

How Are NFTs Impacting the Future of Society?

Photo by Adi Constantin on Unsplash

NFTs are just the beginning of what could be a revolution in digital asset ownership. In addition to being used to tokenise real world assets such as art, music, and even real estate, NFTs can also represent unique items such as virtual trading cards or collectible figurines that derive value from scarcity or exclusive access. These tokens serve as certificates of ownership for digital assets which can then be traded on popular NFT marketplaces like OpenSea and Rarible. 

NFTs may become increasingly important over time due to their ability to tokenize physical artwork, allowing it to be sold digitally without losing its original source material. This could mean that artists could receive royalties for works they create and license them out to customers. NFTs could also open up new opportunities for creators of digital art, music and even virtual environments as they would be able to license their work out securely and receive payments directly from consumers. 

NFTs have the potential to become a major part of our modern economy and culture in the years to come, allowing creators and consumers alike to benefit from unique digital assets with guaranteed ownership rights. It will be fascinating to see what the future holds for NFTs. NFT technology may still be in its early stages, but its implications are huge.

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