IN a bid to enhance students’ interest in the science and technology field, Yu Cai Foundation (YCF) today sponsored RM1.7million worth of science apparatus to 17 Chinese secondary schools in Penang.
As part of its Grant for Physical Facilities programme, the foundation, which is a charitable initiative by Ananda Krishan Tatparanandam and Usaha Tegas Group, aims to nurture young talent.
Yu Cai Foundation chairman Chan Chee Beng said the foundation was proud to support the state government’s initiative to project Penang as a centre of engineering and scientific excellence.
“We are pleased to play our role through the award of RM1.7 million to the 17 schools.
“Up to date, we have awarded RM5.9 million to 59 schools to purchase traditional and digital science apparatus.
“The traditional science apparatus will assist the schools in preparation of experiment-based examination while digital apparatus aims to enhance students’ interest in science and technology,” he said in his speech at the Penang Science Cluster (PSC) in Gat Lebuh Cina.
The foundation, which was launched in 2015, wants to enable students to achieve their academic and vocational potential through education.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present, lauded the initiative by the foundation to donate the science equipment.
“It is great as the same equipment is also being donated to PSC to allow students in other schools to gain its benefit.
“Penang is home to many high-tech companies, multinationals from over the world and leading local technology companies across various industries such as semiconductors, instrumentation, storage and medical devices,” he said.
Chow pointed out that PSC’s mission was to spark interest in science and technology and to create innovation and entrepreneurship among the students.
He also stressed on the importance to have a makerlab in each school.
“It helps to ensure an interactive learning environment,” he said, adding that the state government emphasised this initiative.
The 17 Chinese secondary schools that received the grants were SMJK Chung Hwa Confucian, SMJK Chung Ling Air Itam, SMJK Chung Ling Butterworth, SMJK Convent Datuk Keramat, SMJK Heng Ee, SMJK Heng Ee Bayan Lepas, SMJK Jit Sin, SMJK Jit Sin 2, SMJK Penang Chinese Girls’ High School, SMJK Phor Thay, SMJK Sacred Heart, SMJK Union, Chung Ling Private High School, Han Chiang High School, Jit Sin Independent High School, Penang Chinese Girls’ Private High School and Phor Tay Private High School.
Also present was PSC chief executive officer Ooi Peng Ee.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad
Video by Alvie Cheng