The students of class 3A5 at Le Van Tam Primary School confidently presented their product, "A Model of Renewable Green Energy for Life." Photo: Mai Dan.

In response to the " Creative STEM 2026 " competition launched by the Ministry of Education and Training, many primary schools in Hanoi have simultaneously organized STEM Robotics competitions and experience days, creating a beneficial and practical scientific playground for students right from the primary school level.

Connecting innovation with environmental issues.

On the morning of April 21st, Le Van Tam Primary School organized the STEM Robotics Innovation Competition with the participation of 45 groups whose outstanding products were selected by the judging panel from nearly 200 products submitted by classes throughout the school.

Of nearly 200 products, approximately 50% focused on environmental protection solutions , efficient resource use, and energy conservation. This figure demonstrates students' clear interest in sustainable development issues.

According to the guidelines of the "Creative STEM 2026" competition, entries should focus on the theme of " sustainable energy ," such as rational energy use in homes and schools, exploitation of renewable energy, proposed solutions to reduce environmental pollution, and changes in energy consumption habits. Models can be technical products, research projects, or practical application solutions.

At the competition, many student ideas were highly appreciated for their practical application and clear message. A prime example is the "Automatic, Smart, Water-Saving, Solar-Powered Plant Watering System" model by a group of students from class 3A5. The product uses a humidity sensor and solar panels to automatically water plants when the soil is dry, saving water and electricity and contributing to environmental protection.

Student Dinh Ha Dan, from class 3A5, shared: “We want to create a product that helps people save water and take care of plants more easily, thereby contributing to keeping the environment green, clean, and beautiful .”

Not only students, but also parents are actively involved. Ms. Tran Thi Chuc, parent of Dinh Ha Dan, said that allowing children to create products themselves and present their ideas helps to form scientific thinking habits and environmental awareness from a young age.

Ignite passion and develop students' abilities.

According to the plan of the Ministry of Education and Training, the "Creative STEM 2026" competition aims to contribute to educational reform through STEM/STEAM experiential activities , helping students develop scientific thinking, creativity, and digital skills, while also raising awareness of sustainable development issues such as environmental protection, efficient resource use, and energy conservation .

Sharing her thoughts on the significance of this activity, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Hao, Principal of Le Van Tam Primary School, said that the competition is not only an intellectual playground but also an opportunity for students to apply their knowledge to practice, develop teamwork skills, creative thinking, and the ability to present ideas.

Sharing the same view, Ms. Vu Thi Anh Tuyet, Principal of Nguyen Viet Xuan Primary School, believes that STEM Robotics activities help students "learn through play and play through learning," thereby developing logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for technology from an early age. At the same time, it's also an opportunity to strengthen the bond between the school, family, and society, as parents participate and support their children in the learning process.

Adding to the school's perspective, Ms. Nguyen Kim Dung, Principal of Quynh Mai Primary School, believes that organizing STEM Robotics activities not only helps students access modern technology but also creates an environment for them to confidently express themselves and develop comprehensive abilities. According to her, when students directly experience and create, knowledge becomes more accessible and easier to absorb, thereby fostering a lasting love of learning.

Ms. Nguyen Phuong Hoa, Principal of Vinh Tuy Primary School, emphasized that STEM Robotics is one of the directions that aligns with the current trend of educational reform. These activities help students develop logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a spirit of cooperation, while also contributing to the formation of a sense of responsibility towards the community through products related to the environment and life.

In many schools, STEM robotics is no longer a standalone activity but has become an integral part of experiential education programs. Connecting STEM content with practical issues such as the environment and energy not only helps students access knowledge naturally but also contributes to fostering social responsibility from a young age. From simple models, these "young engineers" are gradually nurturing creative thinking and a desire to contribute to the community.