KUCHING: The Sarawak English Literacy Conference (SELC) 2025 has received official recognition as a Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) claimable training programme.
The endorsement allows eligible Malaysian employers to claim conference fees under the HRD levy, opening doors for more participants to gain cutting-edge insights and training in English language education.
The conference is scheduled to take place from September 17 to 19, at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) here.
The SELC 2025, themed around transformative strategies in English literacy teaching, is jointly organised by Place Borneo and the Layar Education Development Committee (LEDC), with the support of renowned education partners including Jolly Learning and STEM Learning UK.
The conference will feature internationally-acclaimed speakers and educational leaders, offering practical tools, evidence-based approaches, and innovative perspectives for literacy professionals.
Among the notable speakers is Gilbert Jolly, the incoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Jolly Learning, who brings a global perspective shaped by his experience in high-growth start-ups in London, San Francisco and Nairobi.
Since joining the family business three years ago, Jolly has spearheaded the development of Jolly Classroom, a digital platform enhancing access to literacy learning.
“Our focus is to bridge the gap between digital and physical tools to improve literacy outcomes globally,” said Jolly.
Also joining is Sarah Dagnell of STEM Learning UK, a recognised leader in science and STEM education.
With 14 years of classroom experience and award-winning credentials in science development, she is expected to deliver sessions on integrating science and literacy for more engaging teaching.
“Science and literacy are natural partners. Together, they spark curiosity and build comprehension,” she said.
Sara Wernham, the co-author of the internationally acclaimed Jolly Phonics programme and a former UK primary school teacher, has contributed to Systematic Synthetic Phonics, Jolly Grammar, and Jolly Readers, which have revolutionised early literacy instruction worldwide.
“Early literacy is foundational. When children learn to read effectively, they gain the confidence to learn anything,” said Wernham.
The conference is backed by the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD), the Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Well-being Development, the State Education Department, and Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak).
Registration is now open, with fees set at RM890.92 for Malaysian delegates and USD300 for international participants.
These rates are inclusive of Sales and Service Tax (SST) and bank charges.
For more information or to register, visit www.selconference.com or contact Emierson at +60 82 555 189 or email them at sarawakenglishliteracyconf@gmail.com.
