On November 25th 2023, the Faculty of Resource Science and Technology Resources (FRST, UNIMAS) embarked on a School Adoption Programme. The initiative, with its inaugural focus on Sekolah Kebangsaan Buso, aims to foster unity and promote mutually beneficial cooperation between UNIMAS and the local community. The successful implementation of this initiative involved the participation of 51 individuals, including lecturers, support staff, and students from Persatuan Sains dan Teknologi (PERSAINTEK), along with 54 students, 15 teachers and school support staff from Sekolah Kebangsaan Buso.
The primary objective of the program is to deliver an immersive learning experience that captivates students’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). By targeting schools in remote regions, FRST seeks to contribute significantly to education in Sarawak, elevating the status of natural sciences and fostering environmental awareness among students. A key component of this initiative involves upgrading STEM laboratories in adopted schools, thereby enhancing educational infrastructure and ensuring a sustained positive impact on students’ learning experiences. The FSTS has committed to a long-term partnership, addressing immediate educational needs while laying the groundwork for lasting change.
The second significant initiative focuses on the creation and maintenance of STEM rooms in schools, relieving the burden on educational institutions to provide a dynamic and practical learning experience for students. This strategic move is crucial in providing essential resources to students, allowing them to fully explore their potential in the field of STEM. Emphasizing a commitment to empowering science, technology, and innovation, the FSTS aims to foster the interest of the younger generation in STEM education through an enjoyable and engaging approach. The initiative also includes the establishment of networks and knowledge-sharing partnerships among academic professionals, UNIMAS staff, teachers, and students of Sekolah Kebangsaan Buso.
This collaborative effort is expected to facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of teaching and learning in the school. The introduction of UNIMAS, particularly the Faculty of Resource Science and Technology, to the residents of Buso Village represents a strategic move in building a close-knit relationship between the university and the community.