UTS mulls English learning and teaching centre

SIBU: Universiti Teknologi Sarawak (UTS) is planning to enhance English language proficiency by establishing a dedicated English learning and teaching centre on its campus.

According to UTS chairman Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, the university will collaborate with the Sarawak Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development (MEITD) to bring this initiative to fruition.

“This effort aims to create a campus environment where English is the primary medium of communication. We also want to encourage all students to speak English regularly on campus,” he said.

Dr Annuar, who is the Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, said this this in his speech during the new students’ oath-taking ceremony at the Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud Chancellor’s Hall, UTS here today (Sept 20).

He added that the centre will benefit both local and international students, particularly those who may not be proficient in English.

“This centre will support students in mastering the English language and is expected to play a key role in improving English skills among the broader community,” he said.

The centre will also provide opportunities for companies to send their employees for intensive courses, and for the Malaysian Ministry of Education (KPM) to train teachers in enhancing their English proficiency.

“In addition to working with MEITD, we plan to collaborate with the English Language Teaching Centre (ELTC) and the Ministry of Education (MoE) to bring this project to life.

“UTS aims to become a campus where English is widely used as the primary language,” said the Nangka assemblyman.

He added that a proposal is currently being drafted for the establishment of this centre, which is expected to significantly boost English proficiency in Sarawak.