STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) challenges are engaging, hands- on activities that encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity among students. These challenges provide real-world applications of scientific and mathematical principles while fostering teamwork and innovation. Implementing STEM challenges in educational settings is essential for preparing students for future careers in science and technology. This academic year, SPR with BFITS Thailand initiates an event, which is the M1 - M3 STEM Triathlon: Race, Launch, and Glide to Innovation. This event was held to be a platform to showcase the potential for integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) skills using the English language as a tool for learning. Through hands-on activities, it encourages students to work in teamwork, have good leadership and followers, be receptive to others’ feedback, and be creative and presentable in various ways. Moreover, it can be able to further develop the work to various stages at the level of local and international levels. In this blog, I will share with you how we race, launch, and glide to innovation.

An excerpt from BFITS Thailand Director, Mr. Ratthakarn Chamalerk’s impeccable speech during the Dream Big Pitch Smart One-Day Bootcamp at Lifelong Learning Center, Kasetsart University. This event is an avenue for the students to develop their creativity, entrepreneurship, and critical thinking skills to create a Pitch Project that addresses the Sustainable Development Goals. During this event, students have the opportunity to learn how to revise the startup process entrepreneur mindset, listen and learn about a case study by Ms. Ampornsak Angkatavanich, CEO of Creative, learn and work with their teammates, will have a hands-on experience workshop of three hours hackathon, and have the opportunity to pitch their proposals to the distinguished judges. 

In the STEM City Activity, students are challenged to design and construct a miniature urban environment based on a specific, real-world scenario such as a natural disaster recovery or a transition to 100% renewable energy. Working in teams, participants must apply engineering principles and mathematical scaling to ensure their infrastructure—including transport links, power grids, and housing—is both functional and efficient.

The activity encourages creative problem-solving as students navigate constraints like limited budgets, geographic obstacles, and environmental impact requirements. By integrating technology and architectural design, students see firsthand how science and math are used to solve the complex logistical problems of modern civilization. Ultimately, the project culminates in a presentation where teams defend their city's design choices and explain how their unique scenario influenced the final build.