PENANG, 23 July 2013 – More than a hundred students of the Mara Junior Science College (MJSC) Balik Pulau were enthralled by a group of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) students during the Novel Research and Innovation Competition (NRIC) 2013 roadshow today.

Besides being able to participate in a quiz competition, students were shown how they can convert polystyrene material into a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) adhesive by dissolving it in a solvent.

“It is a simple method to recycle polystyrene material instead of just disposing the non-biodegradable material,” said Nur Syafatin Safie, a first year Biology student, adding that the objective of the roadshow is to evoke secondary school students’ interest in science.

Another first year Biology student, Hafiz Abd Wahab, did stunt riding on a BMX bicycle on the stage, first explaining that he was able to do the tricks because of the application of the laws of physics and mathematics.

A MJSC student, Nur Farahanna Khairy, who had finished her school exam recently, said that the roadshow was timely because she was unaware of the NRIC and that the presentation and quizzes were enlightening.

The NRIC roadshow at MJSC showcased its seven categories that comprising life sciences, engineering and technology, health and medical sciences, social transformation and creative arts, information technology and communication, fundamental sciences, and CoRIC (Community Research and Innovation Competition).

MJSC and SMK Bukit Jambul were in today’s roadshow itinerary while SMK Penanti School and SMK (P) Methodist are scheduled for 24 July.

“We will take the road show to SMKA Al-Irsyad in Perai on 25 July,” said Nur Syafatin.

CoRIC was only introduced in 2011 while the rest of the categories were in 2006. NRIC 2013 was jointly organised by USM, USM Students Representative Council with the collaboration of the Ministry of Higher Education. - Text and photos by Yong Check Yoon