From August 27 to September 8, 2024, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) and Shibaura Institute of Technology (SIT), Japan held a successful mobility program aimed at fostering global learning and cultural exchange among students and staff from both institutions. Participants for GPBL this year included 19 students and 21 staff from UNIMAS, along with 18 students and 7 staff from SIT. The program was designed to enhance problem-solving skills while immersing participants in the rich culture of Sarawak.
The primary objectives of the program were to cultivate a global learning environment, improve participants’ problem-solving abilities, and enhance communication skills through collaborative activities. The two-week itinerary included engaging Group Project-Based Learning (GPBL) themes in Engineering and Science, where students worked on projects such as the development of a palm oil fruit bunch carrier mechanism and the screening of endophytic fungi for antimicrobial potential.
Activities by participants
Participants had the chance to explore Sarawak’s vibrant culture through various excursions, including visits to the Sarawak Cultural Village, Jong Crocodile Farm, and the iconic Kek Lapis Warisan. A kayak experience at UNIMAS lake and a welcoming dinner at Topspot Kuching further enriched their experience, allowing them to bond over shared activities.
The program featured intensive GPBL sessions held at the Faculty of Engineering (FENG) and the Faculty of Resource Science and Technology (FRST), where students collaborated on innovative solutions to real-world problems. The mid-term and final presentations showcased the creativity and teamwork displayed by participants.
Feedback from participants indicated a significant enhancement in their problem-solving capabilities and cultural awareness. The interactions fostered a spirit of collaboration and friendship that transcended borders, laying the foundation for future partnerships between UNIMAS and SIT. As the program concluded with a farewell dinner, participants expressed enthusiasm for continuing their engagement and building on the relationships formed during this transformative experience.
The mobility program not only highlighted the academic strengths of both institutions but also emphasized the importance of cultural exchange in today’s interconnected world. It stands as a testament to the commitment of UNIMAS and SIT to nurture global citizens equipped with the skills necessary to tackle contemporary challenges.
Prepared by Dr Noor Hisyam Noor Mohamed from the Faculty of Engineering, UNIMAS