PENANG: In a bid to bolster Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning and digital literacy, Wawasan Open University (WOU) recently donated 32 computers to Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (Cina) [SJK(C)] Hun Bin. This donation will be instrumental in setting up the school’s new digital lab therefore empowering students with the essential technological resources to gain valuable hands-on learning experience. 

This initiative, spearheaded by WOU’s commitment to promoting educational equity and innovation, aims to bridge the digital divide and equip underserved communities with the tools necessary to thrive in today’s increasingly technology-driven world. 

The partnership was marked by the formal signing of a Note of Understanding (NoU) between both institutions today. The NoU was signed by Vice Chancellor of WOU, Prof Dr Lily Chan and Principal of SJK(C) Hun Bin, Madam Tan Geat Chun at a special event held at the school in Tanjung Bungah, Penang. 

A Joint Working Committee, co-chaired by the School’s Principal and Dean of WOU’s School of Technology and Engineering Science (STE), will be set up to implement a three-year strategic collaboration programme starting with a STEM Apprenticeship Programme targeting the school’s Standard 4 to 6 students. Under the guidance of mentors from WOU and its co-organiser, SM Teknik Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, students will engage in a series of hands-on workshops covering robotics, programming, computing, construction and engineering concepts. 

Additionally, aspiring scientists and innovators can take their creations to the global stage at the International STEM Innovation Competition, to be judged at WOU in June this year.

In her speech, Prof Chan called on educators and mentors to educate students on the values of good digital citizenship. 

“This initiative aligns perfectly with WOU’s mission of providing quality education and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. We cannot deny the Internet’s integral role in education as a fundamental learning tool, but we can empower our young learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to think critically, behave safely, and participate responsibly in the digital world,” she said. 

“Investing in STEM education equips our next generation with the skills to thrive in an increasingly tech-driven world,” she asserted.

Prof Chan emphasised WOU’s unwavering commitment to supporting capacity building initiatives for the school’s STEM educators. “We encourage teachers to collaborate with our faculty on developing innovative STEM learning content and to enhance their skills through WOU’s professional development courses and training programmes,” she added.

At the event, Prof Chan represented the University in a symbolic handover of computers valued at close to RM50,000 to SJK(C) Hun Bin. On hand to receive the donation were President of the Parent-Teacher Association, Mr Cheng Kwang Chin and President of the School Board, Mr Keong Chee Khoon. 

Associate Professor Ts Dr Sean Tan Koon Tatt, Dean of the School of Technology and Engineering Science (STE), expressed WOU’s commitment to supporting STEM education at Hun Bin. He further emphasised as the country strives towards becoming a knowledge-based economy, nurturing young talent in STEM fields is essential for ensuring future economic growth and competitiveness.

“We anticipate more of similar collaborations to further enhance STEM education, particularly in Penang,” he said. 

Established in 2006, WOU (Wawasan Open University) is a private, non-profit institution dedicated to providing flexible, accessible, and online education for adult learners. This pioneering institution in open and distance learning (ODL) boasts a main campus by the sea in Penang and established Regional Centres and Offices nationwide, encompassing George Town, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Ipoh, and Kuala Lumpur. WOU caters to the evolving needs of the digital economy by offering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, alongside micro-credential courses, equipping learners with the necessary skills to thrive in the ever-changing technological landscape. With nearly 30,000 students and over 8,000 graduates, WOU has demonstrably expanded access to tertiary education in Malaysia.

Contact:        

Rasidah Mion,
Corporate Communications Manager
[email protected] 
019 314 2003