Enhancing stem interest and science stream enrolment among b40 students in rural Pahang, Malaysia through the STEMA garden module

STEM education is essential for future career readiness, yet rural B40 students in Pahang, Malaysia face challenges in accessing engaging and practical learning opportunities. This case study examines the STEMA Garden Module, an initiative designed to increase students' awareness of agriculture’s economic value, impart agricultural science and entrepreneurship knowledge, and enhance STEM and art interest through hands-on agricultural activities. Implemented at SMK Sg Lembing, Kuantan, the program engaged 82 Form 1 students, 7 teachers, and 17 university mentors, integrating an IoT-powered fertigation system, plant management, and agribusiness training. A mixed-methods approach was used, including pre- and post program surveys and teacher interviews. Findings revealed improvements were recorded in general interest in STEM education (Q1, p = 0.0011), the intention to further one’s studies in STEM (Q2,p = 0.0336), excitement and readiness to engage in hands-on activities (Q5, p = 0.0017), interest in learning how to think creatively to solve real-life problems (Q11, p = 0.0169), and interest in learning science and entrepreneurship to become an agropreneur (Q12, p 0.0093). The thematic analysis of teacher reflections highlighted technology-driven learning, project-based teaching, improved student engagement, entrepreneurial mindset development, and school-wide STEM transformation as key outcomes. Students gained practical exposure to agricultural technology and entrepreneurship, leading to their first harvest of 8.127 kg of chili, generating RM229.00 in revenue. Despite challenges such as fungal infections and WiFi interruptions affecting the IoT fertigation system, students demonstrated adaptability and problem-solving skills. This study highlights the potential of agriculture-based STEM education in fostering engagement, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world applications among rural area students. The STEMA Garden Module serves as a scalable model for integrating STEM with agriculture and entrepreneurship, making STEM education more accessible and relevant. Future implementations should explore long-term impact assessment and technological advancements to further enhance learning outcomes and STEM career aspirations