04/08/2026

TUESDAY | AUG 4, 2026

12

EDUCATION NEWS

Rural students thrilled to join National Science Week

educators, jobseekers, entrepreneurs and local communities gathered at Batu Sapi here recently for practical AI learning and future-ready skills exposure. The 15th edition of Jelajah AI MyMahir (JAM) TalentCorp was targeted to equip participants with practical knowledge that can be applied in learning, employment, entrepreneurship and everyday life. It also supported the state’s aspirations under Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 (2026-2030) and the 13th Malaysia Plan to strengthen competitiveness, productivity and digital adoption. TalentCorp deputy chairman Mohd Khuzzan Abu Bakar officiated on behalf of Human Resources Deputy Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan. Khairul stressed that every Malaysian should have equal opportunities to prepare for the future economy, regardless of where they live. o Crowds from all walks of life attend Eastern Zone carnival for schoolchildren and families The National Science Week 2026 Eastern Zone Carnival burst into life at the Terengganu Science and Creativity Centre (PSKT) here recently. Crowds from across the east coast states converged for the three-day event, eager to immerse themselves in the interactive world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Billed as a “science explosion,” it showcased exhibitions, workshops and family-friendly activities designed to spark curiosity and innovation. Visitors came from all walks of life, ranging from preschoolers to adults, with many travelling long distances to be part of the celebration. Among them were school students who demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm, proving that rural communities are increasingly embracing science and technology. “Distance is no barrier when it comes to our interest in science. Some of us came with teachers, others with parents, and some even travelled independently to meet here,” said Nurina Raudah Jannah Zulkifli, a Form 4 student from SMK Seri Berang, Hulu Terengganu. ”It’s a truly meaningful KUALA TERENGGANU:

Wawasan Open University appoints fifth vice-chancellor GEORGE TOWN: Wawasan Open University (WOU) has appointed Prof Ts Dr Yap Eng Hwa (pic) as its chief executive and vice chancellor, effective July 1. He succeeds Prof Dr Lily Chan who was at the helm for seven years. As the fifth vice-chancellor since the university’s establishment in 2006, Yap brings extensive international experiences in higher education leadership and research expertise in engineering, sustainability and complex systems analysis. Yap joined WOU in 2024 as associate vice-chancellor and later served as deputy vice-chancellor (Academic). He helped strengthen academic governance, including the establishment of the School of Graduate Studies, and Centre for Student Engagement and Success. He led key initiatives to enhance programme quality, student success and institutional capability, while strengthening WOU’s industry integration by aligning its academic programmes more closely with Penang’s rapidly growing digital and semiconductor ecosystems. Prior to WOU, Yap was the founding dean at Xi’an Jiaotong Liverpool University’s (XJTLU) Taicang campus in Suzhou, China. His academic record includes roles at University of Technology Sydney, University of Nottingham Malaysia and University College London (Australia). Yap holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from University College London, a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education from University of Nottingham and a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Marine Technology from University of Plymouth. Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, chairman of WOU’s board of governors, said the appointment reinforces WOU’s commitment to serve lifelong learners and address Malaysia’s talent requirements. “Prof Yap brings a potent combination of global academic leadership and a deep understanding of WOU’s role in expanding opportunities for adult learners,” Koh said.

The dinosaur exhibition was a popular highlight for children and adults alike during the three-day affair.

exhibition was eye-opening,” said Mohd Azrie, who travelled from Durian Guling, Marang. The carnival’s diverse attractions — from dinosaur exhibits to robotics demonstrations and radiation awareness programmes — ensured that every visitor found something meaningful. Families, students and even professionals left with new knowledge, stronger bonds and renewed appreciation for science.

to spend quality time together without financial burden,” she said. Newly wedded Mohd Azrie Mat Amin and his wife also took advantage of the weekend to explore the exhibitions featured. “We usually spend weekends at tourist spots, but after hearing about this carnival from friends, we decided to come. It’s not just for schoolchildren or youth. Adults like us also benefit. “The radiation awareness

experience, especially for those of us from rural areas.” The event was organised by the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry as the principal stakeholder to strengthen STEM engagement across communities. Housewife Sanizaratna Mohd Shafiae, 44, lauded the organisers for offering free admission throughout. “With a large family and today’s uncertain economy, cost is always a consideration. This carnival allows us

TalentCorp’s Batu Sapi event gives locals insights on AI SANDAKAN: More than 300 Sabahans, including students, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) learners, “The nation’s transformation will not be successful if the benefits of development are concentrated only in major cities.

Banking & Finance development efforts in Batu Sapi. In the days leading up to the event, TalentCorp’s YES! Rock the School engagements reached five secondary schools in the constituency, exposing students to STEM, TVET and future career pathways. JAM TalentCorp participants received hands-on exposure to AI fundamentals and practical applications across learning, careers, “Whether in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu or Batu Sapi, every individual deserves equal opportunities to enhance their skills and build a better future,” he said. As part of the programme, five secondary school students received laptops after winning the AI Future Vision Competition which tasked participants to explore how AI could be used to solve real-world community challenges through creativity and critical thinking. The competition complemented TalentCorp’s broader talent

Students actively participating in a session on developing AI skills during the event organised by TalentCorp.

build practical capabilities and prepare for better jobs, stronger businesses and a more resilient future workforce,” said TalentCorp Group CEO Biruntha Mooruthi. Batu Sapi marks the 15th edition of the ongoing JAM TalentCorp, following earlier editions across Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah.

productivity, creativity, cybersecurity and robotics. They also explored how AI can support key sectors in Sabah, including tourism, agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing, services and small businesses. “Through Jelajah AI MyMahir, we are helping Malaysians understand AI,

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