CALM Engages with MEITD and SAINS: A Vision for Digital Education in Sarawak
The Centre for Applied Learning & Multimedia (CALM) was honoured to host esteemed representatives from the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) and Sarawak Information System Sdn Bhd (SAINS) this past Wednesday. The gathering was further enriched with the presence of delegates from the Tun Abdul Haji Open Digital Centre (TAHODC).
Heading the MEITD delegation was the Talent Development Administration Officer, Audrey anak Piros, whilst Ann-Marie Ho Bena, serving as the project manager, led the contingent from SAINS.
On hand to receive the distinguished guests were CALM’s leading lights: Director Dr Kartini bt Abd Ghani, Deputy Director (Learning Education) Dr Terry Lucas, PgDip, HETL Coordinator Dr Agatha Lamentan Muda, Senior Information Technology Officer Sharifah Norizan binti Wan Zain, and Senior Assistant Executive Sarmizi bin Mohamad Daud and Assistant Executive Irman Japar. Their ranks were bolstered by the presence of Senior Assistant Director Siti Sabrina bt Sabri and Awg Aizuddin Sulong b Awg Sabli from TAHODC UNIMAS.
The crux of this visit by the ministry was to delve deep into and appraise the Career Order System, colloquially known as SPEAK. This initiative is in tandem with the aspirations of the Honorable Dr Haji Annuar Bin Rapa’ee, Deputy Minister of Education and Innovation, to position SPEAK as the vanguard of digital educational platforms in Sarawak.
Furthermore, CALM took this occasion to shed light on its pivotal role within the university. Beyond merely being a centre, CALM stands at the forefront of providing top-notch teaching and learning facilities. Their mission doesn’t stop there; they are actively engaged in enhancing the academic teaching and learning experience, ensuring educators are equipped with the best tools and methods for modern education.
Though SPEAK was the primary focus, CALM didn’t miss the beat in introducing their E-Learning Enrichment and Advancement Platform (eLEAP). This platform, amongst others, forms the bedrock of CALM’s strategy to invigorate and transform the teaching and learning experience within the university. The session became a fertile ground for mutual exchange of insights, visions, and aspirations for the digital education landscape.
In her remarks, Dr Kartini noted, “Such interactions are pivotal in fostering a harmonious exchange of ideas, ensuring that the future trajectory of digital education remains both innovative and progressive.”
As the day drew to a close, the team at CALM conveyed their heartfelt gratitude to MEITD and all participants. Dr Terry Lucas reflected, “It’s not merely about this singular visit. It’s a testament to our shared commitment and vision for the digital future of education.”
Both entities remain optimistic about the outcomes of this collaboration, with aspirations of elevating the digital educational standards in Sarawak to unparalleled heights.
Words and photos by Fitzpatrick Ricky Guing
Centre for Applied Learning & Multimedia