Nurturing young talent through access to digital learning tools

In a move to champion digital literacy and promote STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education, Wawasan Open University (WOU) recently provided 15 refurbished laptops to three schools in George Town, Penang: SK Wellesley, SMK Padang Polo, and SMK Tunku Puan Habsah.

This contribution is a key part of WOU’s mission to spark interest in STEM among younger students. It builds on a successful series of STEM facilitator workshops launched in May, which were designed to give teachers the confidence and tools to lead modern, tech-enabled classrooms.

The devices were handed over on 12 December 2025 by academics from WOU’s School of Technology and Engineering Science (STE): Dr Mohamad Hushnie Haron, Dr Azrina Binti P. Jamal Mydin, and Ts Shirley Tan.

Dr Azrina (left) and Ts Shirley (second from left) presenting the laptops to educators at SMK Tunku Puan Habsah.

The handover was met with enthusiasm, with teachers expressing a keen interest in WOU’s upcoming STEM programmes and a willingness to co-organise future activities.

“This initiative marks a concrete step in strengthening WOU’s partnership with local schools. We envision this exercise equipping schools with the digital tools they need to develop innovative and engaging STEM content. By exposing students to real-world technology in the classroom, they gain the foundational skills needed as they progress into more specialised STEM studies and career pathways,” said Prof Dr Lily Chan, Chief Executive and Vice Chancellor of WOU.

Dr Hushnie (left) represented WOU at the handover ceremony at SK Wellesley.

On the ground, these laptops will allow teachers to move beyond the chalkboard, integrating interactive digital content, videos, and hands-on activities directly into their lessons. This enhancement of the classroom experience ensures that students are not just learning about technology, but are actively using it to prepare for a technology-driven future.

Presenting laptops for students at SMK Padang Polo.

This donation underscores WOU’s commitment to social responsibility and its leadership in innovative education. By supporting local schools, WOU is not only providing essential hardware but also actively building a sustainable pipeline for future innovators and professionals.