UTM Introduces Hydroponic IoT to School Students

Dr. Seah Choon Sen

JOHOR BAHRU, Oct. 29 – The Centre for Community and Industry Network (CCIN) and the Faculty of Computing, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) visited Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Taman Universiti to provide students with exposure to the Internet of Things (IoT). The programme aimed to enhance students’ knowledge of modern technology through hands-on demonstrations, including the automated irrigation of hydroponic plants.

The programme involved active participation from several lecturers of the Faculty of Computing, UTM, including Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Erne Nazira Bazin, Dr. Noor Hidayah Zakaria and Dr. Seah Choon Sen. In addition, several teachers from SMK Taman Universiti were present to supervise and assist the students, while the primary participants were Form 2 students who had the opportunity to engage in the IoT exposure session and hands-on hydroponic demonstration.

Dr. Seah explained the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) as the students listened attentively in the classroom.

The programme began with an introductory session in the classroom, where students were introduced to the concept of the IoT and its applications in modern technology. Following this, students participated in a hands-on IoT installation session, where they learned to set up devices that would later be used for practical demonstrations, with each student provided a manual to guide them through the process.

Students and teachers set up IoT devices in an interactive hands-on session

The highlight of the programme was a practical demonstration conducted in the school compound, where students, together with their teachers, observed how IoT technology could be used to automate the irrigation of hydroponic plants. This interactive session allowed students to witness the real-world application of technology in agriculture.

Software preparation to ensure that everything is ready for the hydroponic demonstration.

Throughout the programme, lecturers encouraged active participation through question-and-answer segments, enabling students to clarify concepts and engage directly with the facilitators. Overall, the activities provided a lively and educational environment that not only enhanced students’ understanding of IoT but also gave them valuable hands-on experience in applying technology to practical scenarios.

A group photo session to capture the excitement and learning of the day.

The programme successfully provided students with an understanding of IoT and its practical applications, particularly in the field of hydroponics. By gaining hands-on experience, students not only enhanced their technical skills but also developed a keen interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and smart agriculture technologies. Teachers appreciated the opportunity to incorporate innovative technology into learning. At the same time, the collaboration between UTM and SMK Taman Universiti strengthened ties and inspired students to explore further studies or projects in IoT and hydroponics. This programme is sponsored by the Knowledge Transfer Programme-Research Innovation Grant (KTP-RIG) offered by CCIN.