KUCHING, Oct 5: The state government will expand the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Open Lab programme to schools in other divisions across Sarawak as soon as possible.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said the success of the lab in several schools across the state has shown positive results from students, exposing them not only to STEM subjects but also knowledge on new technologies crucial to Sarawak digital economy agenda.
He has recommended the state Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Research, together with the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA), to expand the STEM Open Lab initiatives to schools in other divisions throughout the state.
To date there are 10 STEM Open Labs in schools in Kuching, Saratok, Lawas and Limbang.
“Through the STEM Open Lab, students and the local community would be exposed to STEM subjects and related technologies in informal manners, so that they would be more receptive to the subjects.
“We have seen the positive impact it brings today, where the students are able to operate technologies like programming robots and drones.
“Through the open lab, we can expose the STEM and technology to the community so that they can improve their livelihood with these technologies,” he told reporters after officiating at the SK Rakyat STEM Carnival at Satok, here, today.
Abang Johari said it is crucial for the younger generations to have the knowledge in STEM subjects as “future jobs would ultimately need more brains than brawn”.
He cited high potential of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates in the job market.
“Technology is the new demand in the job market today. Trainees in Centre of Technical Excellence Sarawak (Centexs), Sarawak Skills Development Centre (PPKS) and other vocational institutions would almost certainly secure jobs once they graduated.
“Even Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) is now giving basic vocational training to students,” said Abang Johari. — DayakDaily
