ELEAZAR BARRICK PETER & NURA VALENTIANA LORNA
KOTA SAMARAHAN: Six rural students from Sekolah Kebangsaan Batu Bungan, Mulu, emerged victorious at the Malaysia Techlympics 2023, overcoming a challenging 14-hour journey to participate.
The Malaysia Techlympics 2023 took place at DeTar Putra, UNIMAS on Thursday, during the National Science Week (MSN) Carnival 2023.
Out of the 14 students aged 9 to 12 that the school brought, two students clinched the top spot, another pair achieved the first runner-up position in the sustainable vehicle challenge, and another duo secured third place in the drone competition.
Joseph Bansa, their guiding teacher from Kampung Asam Paya Hilir, Baram, shared how some of his students showcased an innovative sustainable vehicle concept at the school-level competition.
“It impressed me so much that I knew they had to participate in the Techlympics,” he said.
Joseph also introduced primary three students to the competition, as it involved beginner’s coding.
He explained that the selection and training for the Techlympics took about a month.
“We first identified promising students from our school’s competition. The chosen few then underwent special training for two weeks before advancing to the state level,” he added.
The journey to the competition wasn’t easy.
Joseph said, “From Taman Negara Mulu, we took a quick flight to Miri, and then had a 14-hour drive to Kuching. Our group, consisting of five teachers and 14 students, travelled in two Hilux vehicles and an Axia.”
He highlighted that funding the trip, especially with the limited transport and ensuring meals for the students, was financially straining. However, he thanked to Techlympics and UNIMAS for their sponsorship support.
Joseph believed it’s crucial for rural students to have exposure to events like this.
“Without such experiences, they might feel overwhelmed in higher education settings, lagging behind their peers. My hope is that more rural schools will encourage students to embrace opportunities beyond their villages.
“Despite the hurdles, their determination shone through. I’m proud of their achievements and we’ll surely celebrate this win,” he said.
