Pioneering Single Parents Via Chemistry, Design Thinking, Venture

Logavani Rajesvaran

JOHOR BAHRU, May 24 – A community-based outreach program was successfully conducted by students participating in the Thinking Skills in Chemistry Education course, which is part of the Master of Chemistry Education program at the Faculty of Educational Sciences and Technology (FEST) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). In collaboration with the People’s Housing Programme (PPR) at Taman Kempas Permai, this initiative aimed to empower single parents by providing them with entrepreneurial skills.

The program is part of a series of workshops under the UTM Knowledge Transfer Programme – Research and Innovation Grant (UTM KTP-RIG), specifically Subproject 2: Knowledge Transfer of Design Thinking Skills for Community Entrepreneurship among Single Mothers at Block C PPR Kempas Permai. This initiative is also aligned with the Program for Enhancing Community Competence at Kempas Permai, which focuses on Economic, Social, and Educational Empowerment, led by Associate Professor Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib. The subproject aims to connect academic knowledge with the real needs of the community through meaningful, skill-based activities.

The event featured a hands-on chocolate-making workshop, structured around the Design Thinking model and incorporating fundamental chemistry concepts. Participants were guided through each phase of the Design Thinking process—empathy, problem definition, ideation, prototyping, and testing—allowing them to explore innovative solutions while gaining both scientific understanding and practical entrepreneurial skills.

The program commenced with an engaging session titled “Design Thinking as a Catalyst for Creativity and Entrepreneurship,” delivered by Associate Professor Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib, who used chocolate as the central design theme.

Introductory Session on Design Thinking, “Design Thinking as a Catalyst for Creativity and Entrepreneurship” by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Corrienna Abdul Talib.

After a refreshment break, participants were provided with information on food safety practices and proper handling techniques necessary for hygienic food preparation. Following this, Hasnah shared her expertise on chocolate-making methods, including tips for handling and storage.

Chocolate making techniques, handling and storage tips by Hasnah.

Participants learned about the science behind chocolate making, including techniques such as double-boiling and observing physical changes in ingredients. This illustrates the connection between chemistry and everyday life. Under the guidance of FEST students, the single parents had the opportunity to unleash their creativity and produce their own unique chocolate products. The workshop concluded with a showcase and a friendly competition, where the handmade chocolates were evaluated, and prizes were awarded to the top three creations. This event celebrated their creativity and innovation.

Single parents in action—melting chocolate during the hands-on workshop.

Creative expressions in every bite—handmade and vibrant chocolate creations reflected both scientific learning and personal flair.

The program not only introduced scientific principles and technical skills but also provided a platform for exploring home-based business opportunities. It demonstrated how chemistry and design thinking can foster innovation, build confidence, and promote self-sufficiency.

As one of the impactful outreach initiatives supported by the UTM KTP-RIG grant, this program exemplified the synergy between academic research and community engagement. The enthusiasm and commitment of the single parents involved were truly inspiring. Their participation underscored the notion that empowerment starts with education and flourishes through opportunities and support. With these initial steps into entrepreneurship, the participants are now better equipped to turn their aspirations into reality.

By: Logavani Rajesvaran, FEST.