by Jiwan Singh
Developing environmentally-conscious habits begins with meaningful learning experiences. As part of Go Green SG 2026, Primary 4 students from Kheng Cheng School participated in the “Coding Food Saving Solutions with Micro” programme, exploring the issue of food waste and working together to brainstorm solutions.
Micro;bits coded by students
To bring the students’ ideas to life, Kheng Cheng School partnered with the Graphite Academy a Singapore-based coding and robotics academy that teaches students future-ready digital skills through STEM learning an educational approach that integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through hands-on, real-world problem-solving and project-based activities. Called Micro:bits, this technology comprises a small, programmable microcontroller board that introduces coding and electronics in a fun and accessible way. Students worked together in groups to conceptualise their designs and solutions, before building innovative prototypes to address the challenges of reducing food waste.
“Food waste is a daily reality that often goes unnoticed,” said Ms Jocelyn, homeroom teacher for Primary 4.5. “I hope to raise awareness and inspire students to make more sustainable choices.”
Primary 4 students sharing their ideas with their teacher.
A student sketching out the group’s idea to tackle food waste
After finalising their designs on paper, students brought their ideas to life by first building prototype models using cardboard. These prototypes allow the students to see how their ideas would work in real life, before they are built using micro technology.
Students crafting their prototypes
Students then worked in groups to program their Micro:bits, applying their newly-gained technical skills to bring their designs to life. Testing their programs, they continued making adjustments to ensure the Micro:bits worked properly.
Students coding their Micro: Bits
The programme and experience sparked conversations and reflection on food waste in Singapore among the students. “I have learnt that Singaporeans waste millions of tons of food each year and we should reduce it. Technology can help invent things to help with this issue and remind people the right thing to do.”, said Liam Khanashat, from Primary 4.5
The following day, Kheng Cheng School displayed the students’ prototype to parents, teachers, and members of the public. Students shared and demonstrated how their innovative solutions could help reduce food waste, reinforcing their learning while inspiring others within the community to adopt sustainable habits in their daily lives.
The “Coding Food Saving Solutions with Micro” programme gave students the opportunity to combine technology, creativity, and environmental awareness to address the issue of food waste. Through designing, building, and showcasing their solutions, students developed valuable coding and collaboration skills while gaining a deeper appreciation of sustainable, zero-waste living.
