The Department of Physics held an On-Demand Community Service Program (PkM) at SMP Negeri I Bayat, Klaten, on November 9, 2024, titled “Simple Solar Power Demonstration to Motivate Students in Learning Science at SMP Negeri I Bayat, Klaten, Central Java.” The event aimed to motivate students to study Natural Sciences (IPA), especially Physics, through demonstrations of simple Solar Power Plants (PLTS) and various simple physics experiments.
The program’s lead coordinator, Dr. Romy Hanang Setya Budhi, M.Sc., explained that the program was designed so that students would not only understand theoretical concepts but also be able to see real-life applications of science in everyday life. The Principal of SMP Negeri I Bayat, Sudaryono, S.Pd., M.Pd., welcomed the initiative and appreciated the Department of Physics UGM for bringing interactive and innovative learning to the students. He hoped similar activities could continue to inspire and motivate students.
The event began with an introduction to the Department of Physics at UGM by Prof. Pekik Nurwantoro, Ph.D., who provided insights into the world of science, opportunities for further education, and various community service activities involving students and teachers. The students were then introduced to the ups and downs of university education and motivated to pursue higher education. This session was delivered by one of the UGM Physics students, Ghita Nadhira Azka Rahiemy, who participated in the event. Ghita also shared tips and tricks on how to maintain interest in learning science, compete in various competitions, and take advantage of opportunities to continue their studies at university. Dr. Romy Hanang then gave a lecture on Solar Power Plants and guided a simple demonstration of how electricity can be generated from sunlight. Another session covered an introduction to and a demonstration of the Internet of Things (IoT) applications and their everyday uses, such as smart home controls and early flood warning systems, presented by Dr. Eko Sulistyo.
In the final session, students were invited to engage in fun and interactive learning through simple science demos: experiments such as inflating a balloon without blowing it, picking up a coin without getting wet, creating a lava lamp, and simulating a volcanic eruption. These demonstrations were guided by UGM Physics students (Mega Andini, Putri Awalia Sabrina, Vania Cetta Damayanti, and Mayang Sari), followed by a PLTS demonstration held outdoors. All the experiments were designed to make science enjoyable and easy to understand. The students appeared enthusiastic and actively participated in the hands-on activities and discussions throughout the event, even under the hot weather during the outdoor PLTS demonstration.
Through this program, the Department of Physics at UGM supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly related to access to sustainable energy and inclusive, quality education. With such an interactive approach, it is hoped that students will be further motivated to continue learning, explore science, and understand their role in creating solutions for future challenges.
Contributor: Chalis Setyadi
Editor: Romy Hanang
Photos: Romy Hanang, Rizki Dwi P