Deputy minister: MEITD discussing with public universities to offer postgraduate studies for S’wakian teachers

SIBU (July 28): The Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) is making an effort to help Sarawakian teachers pursue their postgraduate studies in local institutions in the state, said its deputy minister Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee.

He said the ministry is in the early stages of discussion with public universities to offer postgraduate courses at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, Curtin University Malaysia and University of Technology Sarawak (UTS).

“If this can be realised, then this will be a great opportunity for Sarawakian teachers to pursue their postgraduate studies. It is important for teachers to pursue postgraduate studies — there are a few factors that have hindered them, including limited opportunities.

“Secondly, if they do it on their own, they have to travel to Peninsula for extra classes or distance learning,” he told reporters when met after officiating the closing of the Sarawak Young Teachers Conference organised by Pertubuhan Aspirasi Guru Sarawak (PAGS) at UTS here today.

Meanwhile, Dr Annuar said 10 resolutions were achieved through workshops conducted during the conference.

“Three of the resolutions focused on facilities and dilapidated schools; Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM); and most importantly, they achieved a resolution on Dual Language Programme.

“My ministry will take note of these and do follow-up for the benefit of Sarawak students,” he said.

Among those present were PAGS president Mutalib Kasim and deputy president Abang Mohd Shukri Abang Muis.