SIBU: An unexpected air-quality setback may have cut short the 14th Toastmasters International Youth Communication Camp but it did little to diminish the learning experience of three University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) Foundation students who took part in the programme.
Held at Kem Putra Sentosa, Sematan recently, the camp brought together about 150 secondary school students from 15 schools across the state, providing a platform for participants to strengthen their confidence, public-speaking abilities and teamwork skills.
A statement from UTS said the three students, accompanied by lecturer Shahira Johan, participated in a series of activities covering public speaking, speech writing, presentations, impromptu speaking and team-building.
The programme, organised by the Kuching Toastmasters Club, brought the camp to an early close after air quality in Sematan was deemed unsafe for outdoor activities.
Rather than allowing the disruption to overshadow the programme, participants continued to benefit from the sessions that had already been conducted, gaining practical exposure to communication skills that are increasingly important in both academic and professional settings.
One of the key highlights was a session led by a facilitator, Mike Lim, who introduced participants to a practical “recipe” for public speaking.
The session focused on helping young participants organise their ideas, deliver their messages with greater confidence and communicate more effectively with an audience.
The impact was also reflected in the participants’ feedback, with students saying the camp had helped boost their confidence and communication abilities. The opportunity to interact with peers from different schools and learn under supportive facilitators also added to the value of the experience.
For UTS, the participation went beyond sending students to an external programme. It also provided an opportunity to strengthen the university’s engagement with secondary schools, educators and the Toastmasters community across Sarawak.
The university’s presence at the camp also increased its visibility among school students, teachers and Toastmasters members while creating stronger links between UTS and the wider community.
The camp concluded with a closing ceremony and participant feedback session. Organisers’ decision to end the programme ahead of schedule underscored the importance placed on the health and safety of participants, facilitators and volunteers.
“UTS also expressed appreciation to organising chairperson Sahil Dev for his leadership, as well as members of the Kuching Toastmasters Club, the organising committee, facilitators and volunteers for their support throughout the programme.
“Special recognition was also extended to Lim for sharing his knowledge and guiding the participants towards becoming more confident speakers.
“Although the camp lasted only two days and one night, the experience left the three UTS Foundation students with more than just memories of a shortened programme. They returned with strengthened communication skills, new friendships and greater confidence after representing UTS at the youth-focused communication platform,” the statement added.
