By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 15: The Bukit Saban constituency will see increased efforts to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education among students, in line with Sarawak’s growing demand for technical and professional talent.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also the assemblyman for Bukit Saban, stated that the move was crucial as Sarawak advances into new economic sectors, including hydrogen and the aerospace industry, as well as airport construction and the implementation of the Sarawak Gas Roadmap.
“Investors eyeing Sarawak will also want to know if the State is able to provide them (with the necessary manpower and skills),” he said, adding that it would generate more job opportunities.
He said this during an incentive handover ceremony held today for 12 undergraduate and six diploma students from his constituency, and is scheduled to present similar incentives in Spaoh tomorrow (June 16).
He also noted that priority for the State’s free tertiary education initiative at local higher learning institutions would be given to students pursuing STEM-related fields.
Meanwhile, he encouraged students to pursue their education to the highest level possible.
“We have a number who are PhD holders here as well. If they could do so despite the many big challenges, I am sure many of you can follow suit,” he said, adding that it could help them secure good jobs and improve their living standards.
Meanwhile, on the proposed Yayasan Sarawak International School (YSIS) for the Betong Division, Uggah expressed appreciation to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who had agreed to it.
“The syllabus at such schools will be different from those offered at our normal schools. Mathematics and science will be the focus, which is also inclining toward STEM education.
“So, I hope our students will be prepared and be passionate enough to do very well in the two subjects in order to get admitted,” he said.
A political secretary to the Sarawak Premier, Roseline Mapong, was also present at the programme.
On June 5, 2024, Abang Johari stated that the Sarawak government will consider and discuss the establishment of an international school in the Betong Division, including identifying a strategic location for the school that will cater to children from Sri Aman to Sarikei.
Later, on April 10 this year, Uggah said that the government is in the process of identifying the most strategic site for the proposed Betong International Secondary School under Yayasan Sarawak. — DayakDaily
