MIRI: NASA Space Apps Sarawak achieved another milestone this year by winning the Sustainable Development Award from JCI Malaysia in the Quality Education category.

This project, led by the Sarawak Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development (MEITD), focuses on developing young talent in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields in Sarawak, highlighting the ministry’s dedication to education and innovation in the state.

MEITD Minister, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said that this recognition is the result of ongoing efforts by his ministry and various parties to ensure that Sarawak youths receive quality education and equal opportunities.

“Education takes time, and nurturing talent requires significant investment, from financial resources to schools, teachers, parents and policies," he said.

He said this when speaking at the closing ceremony of NASA Space Apps Sarawak 2024 at a hotel here, on Monday.

He added that this success would not have been possible without the collective efforts of many, including partners like Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (TEGAS), the United States Embassy, JCI Lutong, and other local agencies.

Dato Sri Roland Sagah shared that NASA Space Apps Sarawak attracted 140 participants from across the state this year, through its first in-person hackathon since 2021, hosted by the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS).

Participation from schools in Sarawak also saw a notable rise, with great support from teachers who played an important role in encouraging and guiding their students to join this innovative event.

“Teachers are role models for students, and I am pleased to see so many taking up the challenge to mentor young people in programmes like this.

“This year, we saw at least five schools sending more than 10 teams,” he added.

He also encouraged everyone, including students, teachers, parents, and government officials to adopt a culture of innovation and work towards continuous improvement. -UKASnews