On the 13th of June, Soapan Santun conducted an interactive and educational lesson at the Elshaddai Refugee Learning Center in Klang. The lesson focused on sustainability, aiming to empower and educate the students about the importance of environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
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About Elshaddai Refugee Learning Center
Located in Klang, ERLC is a notable educational institution that focuses on providing support and education to refugee children and youth. The center aims to empower individuals who have been displaced from their home countries due to conflict or persecution. Elshaddai offers a safe and nurturing environment where refugee students can access quality education, learn essential life skills, and receive support for their overall well-being. Through their programs and initiatives, Elshaddai Refugee Learning Center plays a crucial role in assisting refugees in rebuilding their lives, fostering resilience, and preparing them for a brighter future.
Ice Breaker: Trash Sorting Activity
The session commenced with an icebreaker activity centered around trash sorting. The students were tasked with sorting different waste items into three respective bins: Recycle Bin, General Bin, and Special Bin. This activity aimed to raise awareness about proper waste management and the importance of recycling.
Introduction to Trashpedia
After the activity, the students' sorting efforts were analyzed, and any misconceptions were addressed. To further enhance their waste management knowledge, the students were introduced to Trashpedia, a trash encyclopedia developed by Zero Waste Malaysia. Anna and Louis guided the students on how to use the app on their phones, enabling them to navigate and understand proper waste disposal methods.
Exploring Sustainability
Anna took the lead in teaching the students about sustainability, covering three essential aspects: environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Through interactive discussions, she highlighted how overusing electricity and supporting fast fashion can disrupt the balance of these aspects. By drawing real-life examples, Anna conveyed the importance of making conscious choices for a sustainable future.
Refreshment Break and Energizer
Following the discussions, the students were given a quick five-minute break. To rejuvenate their energy, Louis surprised them with a quick macarena dance session. Although they were shy at first, they soon warmed up and joined in.
Trash Audit and Upcycling Demonstrations
The session continued after the break and the students were provided with worksheets on Trash Audit, another activity inspired by Zero Waste Malaysia. Divided into five groups of 4 to 5 students per group, they collaborated to consolidate their answers on a piece of mahjong paper, writing down the trash items they found in their trash bin at home, sharing answers with each other, and reinforcing their understanding of waste management and sustainable practices.
Continuing the lesson, Anna and Louis showcased various upcycled items to demonstrate how easy it is to repurpose everyday objects. The students were introduced to innovative ideas such as an upcycled Milo packaging bottle holder, a plant in an upcycled sauce jar, and a mooncake box transformed into a desktop organizer. Other sustainable products like reusable straws, bamboo toothbrushes, mesh nets as reusable produce bags, toothpaste tabs, and loofahs were also showcased, showing the students how small swaps can make a difference in sustainability efforts too.
Ending with a Q&A Session
To gauge the students' comprehension and consolidate their knowledge, a quick Q&A session was held. Anna and Louis answered the students' questions and asked questions, to which the students answered with 100% accuracy, reflecting their understanding of the lesson.
In A Nutshell
The lesson conducted by Soapan Santun at the Elshaddai Refugee Learning Center was a success. Through the activities conducted, discussions held, and practical demonstrations carried out, the students gained a deeper understanding of sustainability and the role they can play in creating a more sustainable future. The session not only empowered the students with knowledge but also inspired them to make conscious choices and take action toward a greener and more socially responsible world.