Science festival kicks of at UI

DEPOK: "Science is fun" is the message delivered in the one- week, first-ever Indonesian Science Festival at the Balairung (hall) of the University of Indonesia (UI) in Depok.

Dozens of elementary to high school students from various provinces started on Monday to present their scientific work at the festival, jointly staged by UI, the Ministry of National Education and event organizer Doctorabbit.

"Participants are required to use simple and easy-to-find materials in their work in a bid to counter the public image that science is both freaky and difficult," said organizer Dyah Ratna Permatasari.

Elementary school students are required to make model cars or trains from used materials while junior high school students are asked to produce their presentations using audiovisual aids. Senior high school students should make a presentation on future means and systems for transportation.

A jury panel will name the winner in each category on Sunday.

A science debate for college students, workshop for teachers, science exhibition, science career corner, talk shows and various games will also highlight the festival. -- JP