Minister supportive for reinstatement of UPSR, PT3

SIBURAN (Jan 12): The Ujian Pencapaian Sekolah Rendah (UPSR) and Pentaksiran Tingkatan 3 (PT3) should make a return, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn has said.

According to the state Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, the reintroduction of these public examinations should be viewed as part of the national efforts to restore focus and long-term planning for students.

“I hope it comes back. This is why we implemented the Dual Language Programme Assessment Test (UP-DLP).

“Last year, it was conducted for Year 6 pupils, and it would be extended over the next three years, with the Form 3 students as the first batch,” said the Tarat assemblyman when met by reporters here on Monday.

On scholarships, he said they remained available for selected courses.

“There are only certain courses eligible for scholarships because we do not want students to graduate and later, struggle to find employment.

“We encourage students to carefully consider their course choices, as scholarships will still be provided for fields that can lead to gainful employment.

“Those who study in public universities are still able to apply for scholarships under Yayasan Sarawak and other bodies like Petronas and Shell, and also (apply loan from) the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN),” he said.

Sagah was at the SMK Tun Abdul Razak here yesterday to welcome students on the first day of school.

In his address to the students, he hoped that they would remain motivated in their studies.

“The initiatives and support provided by the state government are meant to encourage them and nurture their minds to perform better in schools,” he said.

On the school’s facilities, Sagah noted that the main building remained structurally strong despite its age, and also it had undergone multiple improvements over the years.

“I went to this school, and the old building is still standing strong.

“We have also built new hostels, academic and science laboratories,” he added.