Curtin Malaysia inspires future STEM leaders through dynamic maths workshops
Posted date:Miri, Sarawak – 30 July 2024 – The School of Pre-University and Continuing Education (SPACE) at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently conducted highly successful mathematics workshops, engaging secondary school students from two local schools in Miri. This endeavour was part of Curtin Malaysia’s Community Engagement with Secondary Schools Program, ‘SuCCESS,’ designed to offer invaluable support and mentorship.
The workshops featured an array of interactive activities, including mentor-led sessions, exciting Mathematics Kahoot quizzes, and an enlightening talk on Mathematics and Real-world Problems by Associate Professor Jobrun Nandong, associate professor of chemical engineering at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science.
With practical SPM mathematics practice questions, these workshops provided a comprehensive learning experience. The first workshop at SMK Pujut on April 27 welcomed 50 students, and the second at SMK Merbau saw 80 students participating enthusiastically.
Jameson Malang, a teaching fellow at SPACE and the visionary behind this community engagement project, emphasised the importance of promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education in alignment with Malaysia’s aspirations for the Industrial Revolution 4.0. He explained that the SuCCESS programme empowers secondary school students through dynamic workshops, fostering a deep understanding and passion for mathematics.
As part of Curtin Malaysia’s 25th anniversary celebrations, 25 exceptional Curtin students have been recruited as SuCCESS mentors this year. These mentors, selected for their academic excellence or scholarship achievements in mathematics, are dedicated to sharing their knowledge and experiences, preparing students for the SPM examination and beyond.
Jameson highlighted the programme’s objectives: to deepen students’ understanding of fundamental mathematical principles, boost their confidence, and demonstrate the practical applications of mathematics in daily life and various industries. For the Curtin SuCCESS mentors, the programme offers a valuable opportunity to contribute to the community, build connections, and cultivate a love for mathematics while enhancing their own academic pursuits.
Associate Professor Fidella Tiew, Director of SPACE, lauded the initiative, expressing confidence in its long-term benefits for both schools and the university. She anticipates that the exposure to university mentors will inspire students to excel in STEM subjects and hopes to expand the programme to include other science disciplines such as physics and chemistry.
Donavon Soh, one of the programme mentors, shared his experience: “Mentoring and helping students prepare for their SPM was an outstanding opportunity that I never had in high school. It’s a wonderful way to give back to the community and has also helped me enhance my maths knowledge and teaching skills.”
The Principal of SMK Merbau, Chong Lee Ngo, echoed the workshop’s success, highlighting the unprecedented collaboration with university students and expressing eagerness for future engagements leading up to the SPM examinations.
As Curtin Malaysia continues to celebrate its 25th anniversary, the SuCCESS programme stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to community engagement and nurturing the next generation of STEM leaders. This initiative not only bridges the gap between secondary and tertiary education but also ignites a passion for learning and innovation among young minds.
More information on Curtin Malaysia can be found at curtin.edu.my, or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.
Jameson Malang (seated, 7th left) and his team with workshop participants from SMK Pujut
Workshop participants from SMK Merbau posing with Curtin Malaysia mentors
SuCCESS mentor leader Resty sharing her motivational experiences with students
A mentor guiding secondary school students through mathematics questions
SMK Merbau students focused on Mathematics Kahoot quizzes
