By Audrey Virginia Sim, Mirza Muhammad Munshee and Seleviawati Tarmizi
KOTA SAMARAHAN: During Awareness Month 2023, the Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology (FCSIT), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) witnessed a captivating display of its students’ talents.
Spearheaded by the ingenious minds at Persatuan Teknologi Maklumat (PERTEKMA) FCSIT, this month-long affair ventured beyond the conventional boundaries of codes and algorithms, highlighting the diverse skill sets thriving within among computer science students.
Transforming the FCSIT main lobby into the intriguing ‘Eyes Wide Open!’ gallery was Lee Su Fah. A vivacious third-year Software Engineering student, she orchestrated a remarkable convergence.
Departing from the customary tech exhibitions, this showcase transcended boundaries by collaborating with the Mental Health Association of Sarawak (MHAS) and the Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA).
Through a curated display of self-crafted posters and invaluable information, the space resonated with a fusion of insights. The interactive board, adorned with an array of supportive notes more than 100, became a testament to community solidarity.
Nelly Shafina Jimmy Jontang, a fervent third-year Software Engineering student, steered “Wellness from Within: Exploring Mental Health.”
In partnership with Associate Professor Dr. Amalia Madihie, the initiative aimed to dismantle societal stigmas surrounding mental health.
Facilitated by the instrumental support of MindBrew‘s Mr. Maclean Patrick and Miss Eva Ruth from MHAS, students engaged in candid dialogues, fostering a nurturing environment within FCSIT.
Thanish Jayaraman, a visionary third-year Software Engineering student, led the “Youth Speak Forum: Future of Tech.”
This two-day initiative, in collaboration with the Association Internationale des Étudiants en Sciences Économiques et Commerciales (AIESEC), translates to the International Association of Students in Economics and Commercial Sciences.
Hosting distinguished speakers such as Associate Professor Dr. Sze San Nah, Madam Eaqerzilla Phang, and Associate Professor Dr. Jacey Lynn Minoi from FCSIT, and Dr. Abdulrazak Yahya Saleh Al-Hababi from Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development (FCSHD), the forum transcended technological discussions, empowering students to envision their pivotal role in shaping the future.
Audrey Virginia Sim, a second-year Multimedia Computing student, pioneered FCSIT’s inaugural Blood Donation Drive in collaboration with Normah Medical Specialist Centre.
This initiative garnered 40 packs of life-saving blood, symbolizing FCSIT’s commitment to serving the broader community.
Advocating for animal welfare, Mirza Muhammad Munshee, a second-year Software Engineering student, orchestrated a collaborative endeavor with SSPCA titled ‘Hope For Strays.’
Engaging 40 students in both informative discussions and hands-on activities within SSPCA’s premises, the initiative provided invaluable insights into stray animal perceptions and rabies control measures.
Sankari Chanderan, a second-year Computer Science student, curated an avenue for game development enthusiasts.
Collaborating with FCSIT alumni, notably Melvin Jangga, the program served as a guiding beacon for aspiring game developers, drawing a keen audience into the realm of creative game development.
The ‘Soft Skills for Future Tech Professionals: Communication & Leadership’ program, spearheaded by Audry Mayla Meeta, a third-year Software Engineering student, underscored the significance of non-technical proficiencies.
Miss Abby Sie from Sarawak Energy Berhad was invited to share her vast corporate experience, while Ts. Syahrul Nizam Junaini moderated the fireside chat session.
The program instilled a profound realization among attendees about the pivotal role of soft skills in future career pursuits.
As Awareness Month 2023 drew to a close, the resounding narrative echoed the breaking of stereotypes, the cultivation of a thriving community, and the spotlighting of the multifaceted talents within FCSIT.
