From Campus to Community: Enhancing Science Awareness and Interest Through Anatomy Outreach Programme for Secondary School Students in Kelantan

Shamsi Amalina Shamsuddin (Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kelantan, Malaysia)
Siti Fatimah Mukhtar (Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kelantan, Malaysia)
Zul Izhar Mohd Ismail (Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kelantan, Malaysia)
Mohd Asnizam Asari (Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kelantan, Malaysia)
Siti Nurma Hanim Hadie (Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kelantan, Malaysia)
Nurul Aiman Mohd Yusof (Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kelantan, Malaysia)
Mohamad Syabil Ikhwan Mohd Amin (Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kelantan, Malaysia)
Faizah Md Nawi (Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kelantan, Malaysia)
Nur Fasihah Mat Nawi (Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150 Kelantan, Malaysia)

Smart Medical Journal
Vol 8, No 3 (2025): December

Introduction: An Anatomy Outreach Programme (AOP) was conducted by the Department of Anatomy, Universiti Sains Malaysia at Falahiah Secondary School in Kelantan, Malaysia. The programme featured anatomical specimen exhibitions, interactive explanations, and a science-themed quiz aimed at enhancing science awareness and interest among secondary school students.Methods: The event, attended by 340 students from 9 schools, provided first-hand exposure to human anatomy, promoting student engagement with biology and related sciences. Pre- and post- programme questionnaires was developed, distributed and evaluated diligently.Results: Pre- and post-programme evaluations demonstrated significant improvements in students’ science interest and anatomical knowledge, including a 33% rise in science interest and a 31% increase in basic anatomy understanding. The initiative also positively influenced students’ motivation to pursue science-related studies in upper secondary levels.Conclusion: Despite minor logistical constraints, the programme was well received and has the potential for replication across similar educational settings. It demonstrates how university–community partnerships can address educational disparities and foster early interest in science among underserved populations.