EDUCATION has always played a vital role in the many initiatives introduced in Penang, and the latest initiative is the state’s first nature-based classroom which was announced today.
Called The Habitat-WhyteHouse Nature Classroom, the initiative is aimed at inculcating practical skills in the young using nature-based themes and tools.
It is a collaboration between The Habitat Penang Hill and the WhyteHouse Education Group.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said that The Habitat had made Penang proud not only in the discovery of a world-class rainforest, but also by spearheading a platform to educate the future generation on the importance of understanding and connecting with Mother Nature.
“Studies have shown that a nature-based education offers many unique benefits to a child’s academic, social and behavioural development.
“I am confident that this partnership between The Habitat and WhyteHouse will contribute towards providing a meaningful nature-based education to our children for years to come.
“This initiative, I believe, is also in line with the policy of the Penang government to position Penang Hill as a centre of excellence for education and eco-tourism which is also part of the vision and mission statement for Penang Hill Corporation (PHC),” said Chow during his speech at the launching ceremony of the programme in The Habitat Penang Hill.
Its managing director Allen Tan said that the Nature Classroom is a three-hour programme tailored for children between age four and six.
“The pupils will be exposed to lessons that comprise of nature discovery, arts and craft, music and movement, sensory development as well as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) activities.
“We have always focused on rolling out quality nature-based education experience and it is truly amazing to finally see our future generation being part of it,” Tan said in his speech.
The classes will be available every Wednesday, beginning Nov 11.
Each session costs RM80 per student and is capped at 15 students to ensure optimal physical distancing measures can be observed.
The WhyteHouse Education Group is an established pre-school institution with over 10 years of experience, striving and providing quality education in five centres to over 200 children in Penang.
Tan also commended WhyteHouse for taking the effort to prepare educational materials for the kids.
“The contents prepared are visually attractive and according to the nature-based topics which will enable the kids to enjoy the session thoroughly,” he added.
Also present during the launching ceremony were state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng, Environment and Welfare Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh, PHC general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng and The WhyteHouse Education Group co-founder Jerry Yeoh.
For further information about the programme, visit https://thehabitat.my.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Law Suun Ting