Curtin Malaysia introduces Riam Hill students to data analytics

Miri, Sarawak – 29 May 2025 – In a bid to cultivate digital fluency and data literacy among secondary school students, the Faculty of Business of Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) recently conducted a dynamic, hands-on data analytics workshop at Riam Hill International Secondary School.

Titled ‘Diving into the Insights of Data Analytics’, the two-hour workshop saw 22 enthusiastic Year 11 students dive headfirst into the world of data through practical learning activities. Designed to make data analytics accessible and engaging, the session blended foundational theory with real-time application using Microsoft Excel.

Led by Dr. Ivy Hii Siaw Hung and Khin Than Myint, lecturers in accounting and finance at the Faculty of Business, the workshop guided students through the basics of data classification, spreadsheet functions and formulas, and data visualisation techniques. To cap off the session, a lively Kahoot quiz tested their understanding, with prizes awarded to top scorers, adding a competitive spark to the learning experience.

“This workshop was about making data analytics fun and relatable,” said Dr. Hii. “We want students to see the relevance of these skills in their everyday lives and future careers.”

Khin added, “It’s always rewarding to witness young minds excited about learning something new. These are essential skills for the digital age, and it is wonderful to see students grasp them so quickly.”

The initiative not only supports UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education by promoting digital skill-building, but also contributes to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by empowering students with equal access to future-ready knowledge.

Student feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the session as both eye-opening and enjoyable. Several expressed surprise at how much they could learn about data in such a short time, and how useful those skills will be going forward.

This outreach programme is part of Curtin Malaysia’s broader commitment to community engagement and educational empowerment. Through partnerships with schools across Sarawak, the university aims to bridge academic learning with real-world application, nurturing the next generation of digital thinkers and problem-solvers.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit its website at curtin.edu.my, or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

(Front row, from left) Dr Ivy Hii and Khin Than Myint pictured with students from Riam Hill International Secondary School following the successful workshop