MUKAH: Emphasising critical thinking in education is crucial to ensuring a secure future for students, said Deputy Minister of Economy and Member of Parliament for Mukah, Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib.
Hanifah mentioned that students must possess the capability to apply knowledge in their daily lives and that teachers play a pivotal role in moulding their thinking processes to enable independent decision-making for long-term success and holistic development.
Moreover, students should be encouraged to identify opportunities within their respective fields, she remarked.
These statements were made during the inauguration of the 2024 Outstanding Service Award (APC) and Retirement Ceremony at Kingwood Resort yesterday.
Hanifah added that the government is committed to enhancing the quality of education, with a specific focus on improving the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) curriculum, especially in digital fields, to equip students for the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
She elaborated that proficiency in STEM disciplines directly influences the advancement of the Green Economy, which will be spearheaded by the future generation.
Actively fostering a conducive ecosystem is a priority for Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, aiming to bolster the success of Sarawak’s green economy through the establishment of higher education institutions offering relevant majors.
Hanifah envisioned a future where children could innovate solutions to contemporary global challenges by introducing groundbreaking ideas.
Furthermore, Hanifah expressed her gratitude towards the 36 retirees and future retirees from the Mukah District Education Office Administration (PPD) and extended congratulations to the 84 APC recipients honoured during the ceremony.
Among those in attendance was PPD Officer Mukah, Bahron Othman.