Hands-on programme strengthens STEM teaching in schools and cultivates future talent pipeline.
Wawasan Open University (WOU), in collaboration with the Penang Northeast District Education Office, has launched a series of STEM Facilitator Workshops aimed at equipping school teachers with future-ready skills to better engage students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning.
Under the theme “Empowering Educators to Inspire Tomorrow’s Innovators: Driving STEM Excellence in Schools”, the initiative will train 120 primary and secondary school teachers from 70 schools across the Penang Northeast district. It reflects WOU’s commitment to nurturing a strong generation of STEM talent by first empowering those who teach.
“The goal is not only to train teachers but to inspire a multiplier effect,” said Assoc Prof Ts Dr Sean Tan, Dean of WOU’s School of Technology and Engineering Science (STE). “By building teacher confidence and capabilities in STEM, we aim to ignite curiosity and innovation in the classroom—so students are motivated to explore, create and pursue STEM-related futures.”
This initiative comes at a critical time as Malaysia faces a growing shortage of STEM-skilled professionals across industries—from manufacturing and semiconductors to digital technology. National reports show a decline in the uptake of STEM subjects in schools and universities. Early intervention is essential—starting with nurturing interest and aptitude among students from a young age. WOU’s workshops empower teachers as the first line of influence in that effort.
The first of four workshops, held on 8 May 2025, featured a bridge-building challenge using wooden sticks, clay and glue. Upcoming workshops will include 3D Design & Printing (15 May), Android App Development (22 May), and Augmented Reality (AR) & Micro:bit (3 July). Led by WOU’s STE lecturers, these sessions combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice to make STEM concepts more accessible and exciting for educators.
Each session is capped at 30 participants to ensure personal engagement and peer collaboration. After completing the training, each teacher will return to their school to guide students in applying what they’ve learned through a hands-on project. These student projects will be submitted to WOU for evaluation, with the top three entries from each session featured in an online award ceremony.
Feedback from participants of the inaugural workshop reflects the programme’s impact in the classroom:
“The bridge-building workshop really opened my eyes to how I can make STEM more engaging for my students. I’m already thinking of ways to adapt the activity for my classroom,” shared Puan Siti Nur Aina, a teacher from SK Seri Indah.
Mr Jason Ong of SMK Taman Sri Rambai remarked, “The hands-on format and supportive facilitators gave me the confidence to try new methods. It was energising to learn alongside peers from other schools.”
“It helped me realise how simple materials can be used to explain big concepts. I’m excited to bring this energy back to my students,” reflected Cikgu Harun from SK Bukit Gelugor.
Tuan Mohamad Zawawi Bin Ahmad, Deputy Director (Learning Sector), Penang State Education Department, hailed the initiative as a forward-looking strategy. “This collaboration with WOU is a strategic step in future-proofing our educators. By equipping them with up-to-date STEM knowledge, we are sowing the seeds for a new generation of innovators who will drive Malaysia’s future economy.”
Teachers will receive joint certificates of participation from WOU and the District Education Office. Students involved in the projects will earn co-curricular marks under the PAJSK system, and teachers can claim CPD credits via the Ministry of Education’s online training platform.
These workshops are part of a wider commitment by WOU to build a robust STEM ecosystem in Malaysia. Through its School of Technology and Engineering Science (STE), WOU offers flexible, industry-aligned engineering and technology programmes—including Malaysia’s only fully open distance learning BTech degrees. With faculty who are also active professionals in AI, automation and mechatronics, WOU is helping educators and working professionals alike upskill for the digital economy.
To explore WOU’s full suite of STEM and engineering programmes, visit: www.wou.edu.my