SOP Foundation and IPG Sarawak Campus Miri Inspire Rural Communities Through Expansion Bright Minds 2026 Outreach Programme

Group photo with participants and organisers following the successful completion of the event.

Sg. Asap, Belaga – Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) Sarawak Campus Miri in collaboration with SOP Foundation, successfully organised the Expansion Bright Minds 2026 Outreach Programme: Building Minds with STEM, English & Artificial Intelligence, bringing together educators, students and parents from participating schools included SMK Bakun, SK Batu Keling, SK Long Urun, SK Long Gang, SK Uma Sambop, and SK Bukit Balai.

The outreach programme was designed to strengthen pedagogical practices among teachers, enhance STEM competencies and digital literacy, improve English language learning, and promote community engagement through a series of interactive educational workshops and hands-on learning activities.

The programme benefited teachers, students and parents by providing opportunities for knowledge sharing, exposure to innovative teaching and learning approaches, practical STEM and Artificial Intelligence applications, and collaborative learning experiences. Teachers gained new pedagogical strategies to enrich classroom instruction, while students were encouraged to develop critical thinking, creativity, communication and problem-solving skills essential for the future. Parents also participated in selected activities, reinforcing the importance of family involvement in supporting children's educational journey.

Students and teachers gaining insights through a knowledge-sharing session.

The programme was led by Dr Norsarihan Bin Ahmad, Deputy Director of IPG Sarawak Campus Miri, together with Dr Hu Laey Nee, STEM Lecturer at IPG Sarawak Campus Miri. They were supported by a team of teachers from the institute, who facilitated various educational workshops and activities throughout the programme.

Dr Norsarihan expressed his sincere appreciation to the SOP Foundation for its commitment and support in making the outreach programme possible.

"We are grateful to the SOP Foundation for its generous support and shared commitment towards improving educational opportunities for rural communities. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to SMK Bakun for providing the facilities and excellent cooperation throughout the programme. Our sincere thanks also go to all participating schools, teachers, parents and students whose enthusiasm and active participation made this programme a meaningful success."

The Expansion Bright Minds 2026 Outreach Programme reflects the shared commitment of the SOP Foundation and IPG Sarawak Campus Miri to empower rural communities through quality education, innovation and collaboration. By equipping educators and students with future-ready knowledge and skills, the initiative contributes towards building a stronger foundation for lifelong learning and sustainable community development

For more updates, visit www.sopfoundation.com