Science Engagement “A Day in The Laboratory” Bringing the Laboratory Closer to Local School and Community

Researchers and laboratory staff at OUCRU Indonesia have brought science out of the laboratory and into local classrooms, through a new community engagement initiative called “A Day in the Lab.” Over seven months Mewahyu Dewi, S.Si., M.Biomed, a PhD student and recipient of a PCE Seed Award led the project to demystify laboratory work for children and foster early interest in scientific and health research.

Children are natural thinkers

The initiative began with a brainstorming session in July 2026, involving 15 children aged 7–12, the children of OUCRU Indonesia staff at the OUCRU office. Through games and interactive discussions, the laboratory team explored the children’s curiosity about laboratories and scientists’ lives. In addition to the discussion, participants were invited to visit the OUCRU laboratory and the IMERI museum. 

Following interactive discussions and creative activities, these sessions aimed to inspire curiosity, answer children’s questions, and present a more relatable image of science. The laboratory staff involved in organising and producing the video content also gained valuable experience in public engagement. This initiative further supports lab personnel in developing skills in science communication.

Co-creating science videos by and with young people

The output of the first step of this initiative was a series of educational videos on the theme of science and laboratory work, which were then shown at video screenings in primary schools and the community. The children loved the laboratory activities, wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). They saw blood cells in real life after watching the video. Most of the learning outcomes were reported in the post-test, in the children’s own words, following the demonstrations.

“Today I learned about the laboratory and microscope. It was a very enjoyable first-time experience at my school,”
– Primary School Student

Students primary school having fun while learning in hands-on A Day in the Lab activities, where children handled real laboratory equipment for the very first time. 

In total 110 students from grades 4 to 6 and 20 teachers from Primary School (TK Immanuel Surya and Taman Palem) and Book Village Community Centre Cibubur were involved in this engagement, with support from 28 staff OUCRU served as facilitator.

Mewahyu Dewi reflects the activity was entirely achievable, but far from easy, as it required a large team working well together. “We also have to understand our audience and see things from their perspective, so the material we deliver is easy to understand. And above all, strong public speaking and the ability to properly engage an audience are absolutely essential.”

Vera the laboratory staff shared, “Participating in this activity gave me a new and meaningful experience. I learned the importance of teamwork, communication, responsibility, and adaptability throughout the activity. I also realised that an activity can be a great opportunity to share knowledge while creating an enjoyable experience for participants. I hope to apply what I have learned from this experience in my work and future activities.”

“Through this activity, I learned that introducing the world of laboratory work to children requires a simple, engaging, and easy-to-understand approach, as well as creating comfortable atmosphere that encourages them to stay curious and brave enough to try new things”
– Laboratory Staff

At its core, the project set out to foster curiosity and enthusiasm for science and health research among primary school students, introducing them to the daily work of laboratory personnel in a way that felt engaging and age-appropriate. It also aimed to strengthen the connection between OUCRU Indonesia, as a biomedical research institution, and the local community, making science feel relatable and accessible to young children.