By Seleviawati Tarmizi
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) scholars are pioneering an inventive new vision for community service learning—one that empowers communities and enriches student engagement.
Developed by researchers Associate Professor Dr. Halikul Lenando and Professor Dr. Narayanan Kulathuramaiyer, this revolutionary approach infuses sustainability principles and inventive problem-solving methodologies into service learning.
Dubbed “SULAM-TRIZ”, this model aims to create enduring positive impacts within local communities.
“By incorporating sustainability and leveraging analytical tools like TRIZ, we can transform service learning from short-term projects into a dynamic catalyst for community enrichment,” explains Halikul.
Unlike conventional service learning models, SULAM-TRIZ emphasizes comprehensive long-term planning, active community participation, and robust evaluation frameworks.
“The goal is to move from transactional projects to meaningful collaborations that empower communities to become agents in their own sustainable development,” adds Narayanan.
Early analysis indicates SULAM-TRIZ enhances student engagement, enriches learning experiences, and fosters personal growth.
“Students gain practical skills and a sense of social responsibility. This shapes a generation of innovators ready to create lasting change,” Halikul states.
As UNIMAS cements its position as an education pioneer, SULAM-TRIZ represents a revolutionary leap.
Its community-centric vision promises to reshape service learning, delivering enduring positive impacts that reach far beyond the classroom.
The SULAM-TRIZ model has been presented at The 2nd National Conference on SULAM.