KUCHING: A total of 187 secondary schools in Sarawak will be equipped with National Geographic Learning science reference books under a collaboration between the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) and Budding Readers Sdn Bhd, benefiting 7,217 science classes.
The collaboration was formalised today (July 30) at Sarawak Science Centre (SSCiEX) here through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between MEITD’s Permanent Secretary, Datuk Adana Jed, and Budding Readers Sdn Bhd’s Director, Charles Shim.
The signing was witnessed by MEITD’s Minister, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
The programme which provides high-quality National Geographic Learning science reference books covering biology, physics and chemistry aims to strengthen science education by providing students and teachers with internationally recognised learning resources that promote scientific literacy, inquiry-based learning and critical thinking.
It also supports the Sarawak Government’s aspiration to increase participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) while nurturing future-ready talent in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Sagah said the collaboration with National Geographic had already been implemented for some time, with the MOA serving to formalise the partnership.
“We have a programme we do together with National Geographic. They have been doing a lot of things on Sarawak through social media, including print media, which we will be able to show not just to our students, but also to the whole world,” he said.
He added that the initiative would help people gain a better understanding of Sarawak while showcasing the state’s environment to a wider audience.
“So people really understand what Sarawak is all about, and they will see the environment here also. That is very important for us. We have been doing this programme for quite some time. Today is just formalising it,” he said.
Sagah noted that the collaboration encompasses both electronic and print media, further enhancing educational outreach and public awareness.
By enhancing access to quality educational resources, the programme is expected to improve classroom teaching and learning while encouraging greater student interest in science and innovation.
The collaboration represents another strategic partnership between the Government and the private sector to advance educational excellence and ensure Sarawak’s students are equipped with the knowledge and competencies required for the future economy.
