SINTOK – The 2024 Learning Innovation Competition (PIP) garnered an impressive response, featuring 208 projects submitted across various categories from all over Malaysia.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, emphasised that the dedication, passion, and commitment from everyone involved have successfully prompted the efforts aimed at transforming innovation in education into a catalyst for new ways of thinking, acting, and problem-solving, in line with the theme “Edusphere: Breaking Barriers with Innovation.”
He noted that this year’s PIP showcased innovations with great potential to significantly impact the society.
“The skills and competencies demonstrated by PIP participants reflect high levels of creativity. The commitment shown by all in addressing the challenges faced by students and society through innovative, inclusive, and sustainable thinking will help the country grow comprehensively.
“The resilience and intelligence demonstrated here will propel our collective progress, proving that well-nurtured innovation skills can evolve to shape a better future for all.
“Let us continue to support and nurture these efforts, ensuring every initiative makes a meaningful impact as we work toward a more sustainable and inclusive society. This collective effort will empower educators to remain relevant and become champions in educational innovation,” he said during the Closing and Prize-Giving Ceremony of the 2024 PIP.
The competition featured various categories. Category A showcased 86 projects from university lecturers, educators from Teacher Training Institutes (IPG), Community Colleges, school teachers, external agencies, and professional bodies such as the Food Safety and Quality Division, Penang State Health Department, and the Department of Social Welfare.
Category B saw 60 projects submitted by students from higher education institutions, IPGs, Mara Skills Institutes, Polytechnics, and Community Colleges.
Category C highlighted 38 promising projects by secondary school students, matriculation students, and the Pertubuhan Asuhan dan Didikan Anak-Anak Yatim Islam Daerah Sik (ADIK). Their participation, representing orphans and underprivileged children, demonstrated a spirit of resilience and innovation that can transcend socio-economic barriers.
Category D featured 16 projects by primary school students, presenting new and exciting ideas that inspired the competition.
One of the proudest achievements for PIP this year was the introduction of Category E, which received three projects from students with disabilities and special needs.
Meanwhile, Category F featured five teaching innovation projects from alumni of the Inspirational Academician Programme (IAP) under UTLC.
Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad remarked that these achievements reflect the growing commitment to fostering an inclusive ecosystem.
“We are very pleased to have received participation from the Northern Dyslexia Association and the Vocational Special Education Secondary School Merbok, who courageously shared their unique perspectives with us.
“This diverse participation demonstrates UUM’s collective commitment to ensuring that education and innovation are accessible to everyone,” he said at the Mu’adzam Sham Hall yesterday.
He congratulated all participants and winners, expressing his utmost appreciation to the entire team at the University Teaching and Learning Centre (UTLC), which was the backbone of PIP’s success.
“Perspectives on the future of education, particularly regarding digital transformation, inclusivity, and the integration of AI in teaching and learning (TnL), are highly beneficial in line with the current needs.”
Meanwhile, Sekolah Kebangsaan Bohor Mali won the Best of the Best Award (Category D) for their Natural Herbal Soap Project.
Project leader, Ms. Sayyidatul Nafisah Mohd Syahmi, shared that her team chose to create soap due to the abundance of locally grown herbs, aiming to use the herbal plants available around the school.
“The soap is used after teaching sessions, especially for students engaged in traditional sports activities like swimming, horseback riding, and archery at school.
“This natural herbal soap is a safer option because it is free from chemicals, and is composed solely of natural herbs, which provide benefits for the body.”
Her team was thrilled with their unexpected success and grateful for the win.
“I extend my gratitude to the teachers for their invaluable encouragement and guidance. All our hard work has finally paid off with something truly sweet and it serves as a source of motivation for us to keep striving for greater achievements,” she said.
