By Nur Hidayah Binti Safarudin, Gloria Law Enn Li, and Marione Anne Foo
The program has conducted eight intakes, with nearly 700 students progressing to a degree program.
Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak’s English Enhancement Program (EEP), launched in August 2022, aims to empower Sarawakian students from diverse backgrounds to improve their English proficiency while helping them transition from secondary school to tertiary education.
To date, the program has conducted eight intakes, with the latest held in July 2024.
Addressing Educational Challenges
The EEP program has sought a bridge gaps between secondary and tertiary education, particularly for students from suburban and rural areas. Participants in the program have shown steady progress into the university’s main program, with a notable proportion coming from underserved districts in Sarawak.
These participants have also reposted themselves to be more prepared to face the challenges that university life has to offer.
Offered in partnership with Yayasan Sarawak, EEP also provided financial assistance to need students. Through initiatives such as talks on funding and networking sessions, students are guided by the teaching staff to available funding opportunities, enabling many to pursue higher education despite financial constraints.
Recognition and Contributions
In 2024, the program was recognised by several organisations for its significant contributions to language education. it received accolades at the eCONDEV 2024 Teaching and Learning Innovation Product Pitching competition, and the Teaching and Learning Innovation – Educator Award.
In IUCEL X KNovasi 2024, the EEP program was acknowledge in the “Enhancing Language Skills through Experiential Learning” category.
The program’s format and themes were also shared at several prominent conferences. Swinburne Sarawak highlighted the effectiveness of tertiary education transition programs at the 32nd MELTA International Conference 2024, and a paper on the same topic was also submitted to the same conference. Additionally, the University presented insights on enhancing language skills through experiential learning at BACA 2024.
A paper discussing the integration of experiential learning approaches in teaching English to Gen Z learners was shared by the University at the 12th MELTA International Research Conference in English Language Education 2024.
A Focus on Educational Equity
The English Enhancement Program at Swinburne Sarawak reflects the Australian university’s steadfast commitment to promoting education equity and enhancing access to higher education for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through this initiative, Swinburne Sarawak provides a structured and supportive pathway for students, enabling them to overcome academic and socio-economic challenges that might otherwise hinder their pursuit of higher education.
This aligns with Swinburne Sarawak’s broader mission of refining and advancing strategies that cultivate the success and preparedness of future students. The university continues to focus on fostering a conducive learning and environment, equipping students for academic excellence and long-term success in their careers and life beyond higher education.
By Nur Hidayah Safarudin (nsafarudin@swinburne.edu.my) and Gloria Law Enn Li (gelaw@swinburne.edu.my), from the School of Foundation Studies, and Marione Anne Foo (mfoo@swinburne.edu.my), Learning and Teaching Unit, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus.