The DeadlyLabs project has taken the next step in building on the philosophy of DeadlyScience to preserve the history of the First Scientists of this land. This was achieved by visiting the community and students of Robinson River school and empowering young Indigenous children with culturally appropriate scientific knowledge in the form of a STEM kit.

DeadlyScience travelled to the Northern Territory to continue the project led by Elders in the Robinson River region and share their knowledge, their ideas, and their care for country. Learners in Robinson River tested a new science kit exploring the chemistry of soap-making and hygiene with experiments spanning Indigenous science. The science of soap-making is a fun way to explore and address the serious topic of staying healthy.

“We’ve had the privilege of listening to and learning from the principal of Robinson River School, as well as two Indigenous Elders, Aunty Patsy-Anne and Aunty Suzanne,” says Corey. The local community have and continue to have full autonomy over the project and its direction. And during the visit, the students showed interest, engagement and delight throughout the whole process of collecting materials, making soap and testing soap.

The DeadlyLabs kit is made by the community for the community. The Robinson River Elders are the core and centre of this project, which has been developed by the Garawa and the Gunindiri peoples with support from DeadlyScience and Merck. They want to pass down their knowledge of the value of cleanliness as well as learning on country.

“DeadlyScience is also gathering data to measure the impact of this project,” says Corey. “This project will be the first to collect culturally appropriate metrics on science education in Indigenous communities.”

Deadly Labs, supported by science and technology company Merck Life Sciences piloted the chemistry learning kit with learners in Robinson River in rural Northern Territory. It is the first in a series of Deadly Labs kits, with future kits exploring physics, biology, and more. DeadlyScience and Merck are dedicated to refining the chemistry lessons and activities based on the results of the pilot and sending it to students across the country and their communities.