The Saipanyarangsit (SPR) School BFITS Program STEM City Exposition challenges students to create a city that tackles real-world challenges and problems based on a given scenario.
For educators in Thailand, especially those in the BFITS Program, events like this go far beyond traditional classroom learning. They reflect how teaching abroad can inspire innovation, creativity, and collaboration in meaningful ways. Throughout the day of the exposition, the students work in teams of six to build their cities using the available materials, transforming ideas into tangible solutions.
The city should be designed with innovation, creativity, and practicality in mind. It must address the unique challenges presented in the scenario while also incorporating relevant Sustainable Development Goals, such as Innovation and Infrastructure, Climate Action, Affordable and Clean Energy, and more. What unfolds is not just a project but also a glimpse into how future cities and future thinkers are shaped.
STEM City Project: Innovation Meets Real-World Challenges
The BFITS STEM City project is more than just an academic exercise. It is a hands-on experience that helps students think like engineers, designers, and problem-solvers. Each idea becomes a blueprint for a better, brighter future, guided by both creativity and purpose.
Registration and Opening Ceremony: Setting the Tone
SPR BFITS Program Upper-Level students (Mathayom 4, 5, and 6) will sign up for the event at the auditorium, and this will serve as their attendance for the day. They will receive a nametag, which will determine their randomly selected groups using an app.
M5 student (Grade 11) Anya and M6 student (Grade 12) Great served as the emcees for the opening ceremony. They facilitated an icebreaker game to help students prepare for the activity.
After the icebreaker, the school director, Mr. Thanapoj Keawwongsa, gave his speech. The students responded positively to the speech, indicating they are inspired and motivated to participate in the event.
Inspiring Performance: The Story of Moana Comes Alive
Like one line of the lyrics of How Far I’ll Go, everything is by design. The Mathayom 6/8 students were tasked with inspiring the audience with their energetic performance of the live musical play Moana.
A breathtaking scene unfolds on a tranquil island paradise bathed in the golden hues of a setting sun. The sound of distant waves crashing against the shore fills the auditorium, drawing the audience into the heart of Moana’s world.
It is not just a story—it is an epic journey of a young girl destined to save her people. A journey filled with heart, courage, adventure, and inspiration for the young audience to see and explore how far they will go.
Team Formation and STEM Project Development
“The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” — Alan Kay
It is the most awaited part of the event—the STEM Project Work. The students were randomly grouped into six members from different sections. The groups were randomly assigned to different colors: blue, pink, red, orange, and green. Advisers were also assigned to each team.
Mr. Nicholas Newell, the Bright Group Managing Director, graced the event as well. He asked the students about their plans for building their respective cities while solving different scenarios.
We also have our hardworking Department Head of the Mini-English Program, Miss Natchanun Chuachan (Ajarn Keen), and our very supportive and dynamic Head of the Foreign Languages Department, Mr. Phanloet Tariyawong (Ajarn Love).
Let’s see some of the scenarios assigned to each team.
Exploring Real-World STEM Scenarios
Noting some team formation:
Gulf of Thailand, a Modern Atlantis City
A coastal region with abundant marine life and clear waters. Students should learn how to design residential and commercial buildings that withstand underwater pressure and provide comfortable living conditions, using advanced air purification and water desalination systems. They must also consider submersible vehicles and underwater tunnels connecting different parts of the city.
Bangkok or Chiang Mai, a Flying City
Overpopulated urban areas with limited land and high air pollution. Students should learn how to build lightweight, durable materials for construction. They must consider VTOL vehicles, hyperloop systems, modular housing, and advanced waste management and water recycling systems.
City for Persons with Disabilities
A region committed to inclusivity and accessibility. Students should learn how to build a mid-sized city in Thailand designed as a global model for accessibility. They must consider accessible housing, barrier-free public spaces, and adaptable public transportation systems.
Indeed, challenging, but let’s see how the students will solve these scenarios and how far they will go in building their cities.
Lunch Break: Recharging and Reflecting
Students will eat their lunches before finalizing their STEM City project. Of course, the teachers must enjoy their meals as well to replenish energy lost while guiding their teams. It is also an avenue for connecting, sharing laughter, and strengthening bonds while discussing how the students performed.
We also discussed the initial part of the evaluation process and the scoring criteria for the STEM City project.
Final Output and Project Presentation
Students finalized their STEM City project and began creating video presentations of their output. Most teams completed their projects successfully. Everybody is happy upon seeing their work, effort, and the fruit of their skills and camaraderie.
With meticulous planning, collaboration, and dedication, each team exemplified the success of the STEM City project. The students also presented their projects to Mathayom 1 to 3 (Grade 7-9) students, helping younger learners develop similar skills and gain inspiration.
It was a testament to the power of collaboration and the pride that comes from seeing a shared effort culminate in success. Kudos to our talented students!
Excellence and Impact: Awarding the Best Ideas
The top 3 groups were called on stage to present their STEM City projects. These groups are benchmarks of excellence, creativity, and impact. Their projects are celebrated not only for their quality but also for the vision, collaboration, and innovation they embody.
They inspire others to think big, work hard, and push the limits of creativity. These projects serve as reminders that with dedication, teamwork, and ingenuity, extraordinary achievements are possible.
We Are All Winners in STEM Innovation
SPIRIT! The name I coined when asked to create the title for the SPR Expo for the year. This activity was designed not only to build a STEM City project but also to provide students with an avenue to showcase their creativity, skills, and talents beyond the classroom.
With the unending support, effort, and help of our Program Manager, Mr. Trell Cornelius, and our Operations Manager, Ms. Nut Nutnaree, the STEM City Project has been a great success.
BFITS admins, SPR admins, SPR teachers, and all the students—we are all winners. Let’s celebrate!
