Rural students need equal access to quality education

KUCHING: Rural and interior students must be given equal access to quality education and modern learning facilities to ensure they are not left behind.

The Sarawak Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan said closing the education gap required more than improving physical infrastructure, with digital access and human capital development also needing attention.

“Efforts to bridge the digital divide must be intensified, including through the provision of technological facilities that can enrich students’ learning experiences,” he emphasised.

Snowdan said this when speaking at the 2025 Excellent Service Award (APC) ceremony for the Simunjan District Education Office (PPD) at a hotel here on Friday (Sept 11).

He shared that smart boards had been supplied to schools in his constituency to provide rural students with more interactive learning opportunities.

Through his involvement with Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (TEGAS), he said digital technology facilities had also been developed at SMK Balai Ringin, while a robotics and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) centre was established at SK Banting.

Meanwhile, 98 educators and members of the Support Group (AKP) from PPD Simunjan received the 2025 APC in recognition of their commitment, integrity and dedication.

Snowdan noted the award was not merely a recognition of service but should motivate education personnel to further strengthen professionalism and service delivery.

He also commended teachers serving in rural and interior areas for continuing their duties despite geographical and logistical challenges.

Snowdan further encouraged schools to organise visits to the TEGAS Digital Hub in Sama Jaya to expose students to technology and the digital economy from an early age.