On 28 April 2025, 14 students from Stonyhurst International School, accompanied by two teachers, participated in a River and Water Education Programme organised by Water Watch Penang (WWP) at Taman Jajar Sungai Ara. The programme served as a practical component of the students’ Geography fieldwork.
Dr. Hong Chern Wern, Executive Manager of WWP, introduced students to water resource management and shared that “the Citarum River in Indonesia is currently regarded as the most polluted river in the world.”
Students conducted comprehensive assessments led by Ms. Rebecca Chin. She was supported by Education Officers Ms. Nur Atiqah and Ms. Fatin Azahara, trained facilitator Mr. Yee Jean Chai, and WWP intern Ms. Alya Arisha.
✅ Physical tests: Students conducted visual inspection of water clarity, measurement of water temperature, and the estimation of river discharge using the float method.
✅ Chemical analysis: Students tested the water’s pH levels, measured dissolved oxygen (DO) levels, and examined nitrate and phosphate concentrations.
✅ Biological sampling: Students collected and identified macroinvertebrates which are small aquatic organisms living in the riverbed.
The programme provided a well-rounded and enriching educational experience” where “students gained practical skills in environmental monitoring and strengthened their understanding of river systems.