Educational innovation through student science projects.

Educational institutions have stepped up the application of science and technology in the teaching and learning process, creating an open environment for students to develop their self-learning abilities.

Applying knowledge to practice.

At the National Science and Technology Research Competition for the 2025-2026 academic year, organized by the Ministry of Education and Training in mid-March, the education sector of Dak Lak province made a strong impression with 5 out of 6 projects winning awards (1 second prize, 1 third prize, and 3 fourth prizes) out of a total of 242 projects from 34 provinces and cities. This achievement clearly demonstrates the maturity of Dak Lak students in developing scientific research thinking and the ability to apply knowledge to practice.

As one of the largest durian producing regions in the country, Dak Lak province generates significant income for its farmers. However, the amount of waste from durian peels is also substantial and difficult to manage. Based on this reality, Nguyen Xuan Thai (10th grade) and Nguyen Dinh Bao Tran (11th grade), students from Hoang Viet Primary, Secondary, and High School (Tan An ward), researched the project "Design and Fabrication of Biodegradable Leather Materials Based on Hemicellulose and Cellulose Nanofiber from Durian Peels." This project won second prize at the National Science and Technology Research Competition.

Nguyen Xuan Thai and Nguyen Dinh Bao Tran, students from Hoang Viet Primary, Secondary and High School, discussed ways to improve the product from their project "Design and fabrication of bio-imitation leather materials based on hemicellulose and cellulose nanofiber from durian peel".

Nguyen Dinh Bao Tran shared: The project utilized durian peels to extract hemicellulose and cellulose nanofiber (plant-derived components) to create a bio-based artificial leather material for manufacturing useful items such as handbags and wallets. The product is not only environmentally friendly but also opens up a new direction in the production of bio-materials, potentially replacing some traditional artificial leather materials.

"The Department of Education and Training will advise the Provincial People's Committee to develop a long-term STEM education project throughout the province. This will serve as a basis for the sector to continue investing in facilities, laboratories, and connecting with universities and businesses to further implement scientific and technical research activities in high schools."

Deputy Director of the Department of Education and Training Vo Thi Minh Duyen

Another scientific research project, "Techno TraffiX - Application of artificial intelligence to coordinate a smart, safe, and sustainable green transportation system" by Nguyen Khai Huyen (11th grade) and Phan Bao Luan (12th grade), Le Hong Phong High School (Tay Hoa commune), won fourth prize in the competition due to its high practical application.

According to Nguyen Khai Huyen, the Techno TraffiX project aims to create an intelligent transportation system that contributes to reducing congestion, improving safety, and promoting sustainable development. The project focuses on applying artificial intelligence combined with embedded systems to collect, analyze data, and coordinate traffic in real time. Based on this, the system can provide appropriate traffic management solutions for specific situations, optimizing traffic flow and minimizing traffic conflicts.

Developing students' abilities and strengths.

Scientific and technical research activities in schools have truly created a scientific learning environment, helping students gradually mature within the school setting. According to Tran Thi Le Thuy, Principal of Le Hong Phong High School, through carrying out scientific research projects, students develop many self-improvement skills and adaptability to real-world situations, such as teamwork, independent thinking, and self-learning.

The project "Techno TraffiX - Applying artificial intelligence to coordinate a smart, safe, and sustainable green transportation system" by Nguyen Khai Huyen and Phan Bao Luan, Le Hong Phong High School. Photo: T. Thanh

Ms. Vo Thi Minh Duyen, Deputy Director of the Department of Education and Training, stated that from the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year, the Department of Education and Training has directed educational institutions to promote STEM/STEAM education; maintain the scientific research movement among students; and diversify creative experiential activities… The achievements at the National Science and Technology Research Competition in the 2025-2026 school year are evidence of the educational reform orientation, shifting from teaching focused on knowledge transmission to developing students' competencies, encouraging creative thinking and problem-solving skills. The projects that won awards at the national competition have become a source of inspiration and motivation, contributing to spreading the scientific research movement in schools; encouraging teachers to innovate, improve their teaching skills, and access modern research methods to contribute to improving the quality of teaching and learning.

Thanh Huong

Source: https://baodaklak.vn/van-hoa-xa-hoi/giao-duc/202605/doi-moi-giao-duc-tu-cac-du-an-khoa-hoc-cua-hoc-sinh-6e33dfa/