Illumina Supports STEM Education at Singapore's Brain Fest 2025

SINGAPORE — On June 12, 2025, Illumina, a leader in genomics technology, played a pivotal role in enhancing the educational experience for young students by sponsoring the Science Centre Singapore's annual Brain Fest. This event, which has become a rite of passage for many primary school students, aims to make science engaging and accessible while fostering a passion for learning in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The Brain Fest is designed to blend elements of neuroscience and genomics with personal development skills, encouraging students to develop teamwork, time management, and strategic thinking abilities. According to Shiyun Quek, a member of Illumina's corporate social responsibility team, "This is the second year the Illumina Corporate Foundation has supported the Science Centre’s Brain Fest, which invites students to engage in various fun hands-on game formats to spark their interests and deepen their journey in STEM learning."

Last year, the event attracted over 6,000 participants, significantly enhancing the center’s DNA Discovery program. This year, 60 students partnered with Illumina employee volunteers to participate in a range of activities. These included a marked gallery trail featuring interactive stations and a dynamic escape game that provided insights into the brain's functioning as part of the central nervous system. These engaging activities brought complex scientific concepts to life while honing the students' problem-solving skills.

A highlight of the event was a hands-on genomics workshop, which offered students a glimpse into real-world applications of STEM. During this workshop, participants learned about DNA mutations and their effects on proteins. Lee Song Choon, PhD, the Science Centre’s senior director of education, stated, "Our partnership with the Illumina Corporate Foundation in supporting Brain Fest represents a significant step towards expanding our reach to schools and communities. This collaboration strongly aligns with the Science Centre’s mission to make STEM education accessible, relevant, and inspiring for all. Together, we’re fostering lifelong learning and empowering the next generation to shape not just Singapore's future but to make meaningful contributions on a global scale."

Illumina's commitment to education is part of its broader initiative, "The Future Is Bright," which aims to inspire and expand access to STEM education for students. To date, through this initiative and other global programs, Illumina has reached approximately 2.1 million STEM learners. By connecting classroom concepts to real-world applications in genomics and neuroscience, the organization hopes to open minds and doors to future possibilities, paving the way for the next generation of innovators.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Illumina and the Science Centre Singapore exemplifies the vital role that corporate support can play in enhancing educational experiences and encouraging the next generation of scientists. The success of such initiatives underscores the importance of fostering curiosity and passion for science among young learners, ensuring a bright future for both individuals and the global community.