In an initiative to foster computer literacy and innovative thinking, the Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology (FCSIT), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) has embarked on a remarkable mentoring program involving Raspberry Pi projects across 10 primary schools in Kuching, Kota Samarahan, and Bau.
The program aims to unlock the potential of Raspberry Pi in enhancing education.
Under the guidance of 10 dedicated lecturers, FCSIT’s service learning team, comprising 98 enthusiastic fourth-year students, collaborating with 10 teachers and engaging 155 inquisitive primary school students, ventured on an ambitious mission to lay the groundwork for the upcoming endeavors.
At each school, the team formed groups of three primary school students and assigned FCSIT’s students as mentors to guide them through the process.
Through brainstorming sessions and collaborative discussions supervised by the lecturers and teachers, the groups explored innovative project ideas that could be brought to life using Raspberry Pi.
The project are related to interactive games and educational apps to robotics and Internet of Things (IoT) applications such as smart home and smart agriculture.
These primary school students from 10 primary schools will participate in the upcoming STEM Trailblazer Sarawak 2024 competition, where the students’ projects will be showcased and evaluated.
This exciting prospect has fueled enthusiasm among the participants, motivating them to push the boundaries of their creativity and problem-solving abilities.
“We are thrilled to witness the enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by these young minds,” said Associate Professor Dr. Kartinah binti Zen, the Dean of FCSIT. “Raspberry Pi offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, empowering students to become active learners and innovators.”
The mentoring program, which will continue through subsequent visits, aims to equip the primary school students with valuable skills in coding, problem-solving, and critical thinking – essential competencies for the digital age.
The successful completion of initial collaboration with the 10 primary schools, facilitated with permission from Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Sarawak (JPNS), set the stage for an exciting and transformative experience that promises to leave a lasting impact on the participants and the broader educational landscape in Sarawak.
The primary schools involved are SK Lumba Kuda, SK Tabuan Hilir, SK Jalan Ong Tiang Swee, SK Muhibbah, SJK(C) Chung Hua Stapok, SJK(C) Chung Hua Rantau Panjang, SKA Ibnu Khaldun, SK Merdang Gayam, SK Tambay and SK Atas.
This effort is related to Sustainable Development Goal: Quality education (SGD 4) and Partnerships for the goals (SDG 17).