FRIDAY, 04 JULY – Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is committed in conducting university-community collaboration in rural areas in its efforts to achieve the objectives of exploring, preserving and effectively gain knowledge for the development of society and nation.

Recently, a programme called ‘ICT-Based Learning Object Development Project Through Natural Methods for Rural Primary Schools’ was conducted at Sekolah Kebangsaan Bundu Tuhan, Ranau.

The project involving 15 year two and three students from the Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) programme, Faculty of Psychology and Education (FPP) UMS were at the school for a week starting from 30 June.

According to the Dean of FPP, Prof. Dr. Ismail Ibrahim, the project which was sponsored by the Ministry of Education under the Research Acculturation Grant Scheme (RAGS) among others was aimed at examining the effectiveness of the learning object created for the teaching and learning of English language.

“The use of ICT-based learning objects involved various elements such as animation, music and graphics. This programme is to enrich the learning experience of English language among school children.

“I hope this programme will be beneficial to students and teachers of SK Bundu Tuhan in diversifying the techniques of teaching and learning English language,” he said when officiating at the closing ceremony of the project. His speech was read by FPP Deputy Dean of Student Affairs and Alumni, Dr. Suyansah Swanto.

Meanwhile, the Headmaster of SK Bundu Tuhan, Johnny Ghani explained that the programmes conducted at the school was seen to be effective in stimulating his pupils desire to learn and love the English language.

He said, the excitement radiated on the face of the pre-schools up to Year 3 pupils involved in the project clearly illustrated how comfortable they were being guided by UMS undergrads who were willing to devote their knowledge and experience of teaching for a week.

“Although the school lags in terms of infrastructure, but academically we are not much different compared to other schools. Such guidance can improve the academic level of the students of this school.

“The presence of lecturers and students of UMS here has inspired us to aspire for continued excellence,” he further added.

He added that SK Bundu Tuhan was always ready to give their cooperation to carry out any programme either with UMS or other educational institutions for the sake of education excellence of the children in that district. – MA (fl)


Photo: Johaidi Ismail


Media and Citra Division
Chancellery Department