Interest in Johor’s pilot school programs is increasing, as more parents – even those from beyond the state borders – demonstrate strong enthusiasm.
The Johor education and information committee chairman, Aznan Tamin, mentioned that programs such as cross-border teacher training initiatives with Singapore have begun to attract more interest.
“To date, 30 teachers have been sent to Singapore under the state’s pilot programme focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.
“Over 30 English teachers will also receive training there as part of our ongoing efforts to improve educational standards,” he further stated.
He mentioned that the state anticipated enhanced student performance and educational achievements within one to two years, particularly due to planned infrastructure improvements set to start this month.
We are not just enhancing physical infrastructure, but also investing in developing our teachers’ capabilities, ensuring direct benefits for the students.
Aznan mentioned that the teacher training program, carried out in partnership with Singapore’s National Institute of Education (NIE), will proceed every month, bolstered further by extra assistance from the state administration.
Since last November, a total of 212 primary and secondary school teachers have undergone professional development training at NIE in stages.
These teachers are being prepared for the opening of Johor’s pilot Bangsa Johor school.
We aim for all 212 educators to secure certification under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
“They will have a significant impact at the Bangsa Johor pilot school, where we are putting more focus on STEM subjects,” stated Aznan.
He mentioned that the professional training sessions at NIE encompassed more than ten modules, which were aimed at enhancing teaching methodologies, presenting cutting-edge STEM applications, and promoting global cooperation in education.
“The training doesn’t merely arm educators with knowledge; it also offers new viewpoints for them to incorporate into their teaching,” he stated.
The pilot program has chosen two main and two secondary schools: SMK Kota Puteri 2, which has 2,352 pupils in Pasir Gudang, and SK Kota Puteri 4, with 532 students in the same area. Additionally, in Johor Baru, they’ve picked SMK Tasek Utara, home to 611 students, along with SK Tasek Utara, accommodating 802 children.
Aznan mentioned that pupils attending these institutions will have to fulfill a requirement of at least 112 hours per year dedicated to STEM courses, as opposed to a bare minimum of 64 hours for those enrolled in regular schools.
In schools, STEM education has been implemented, targeting students in Year Four through Six at the primary level, and Form One through Three at the secondary level.
“Feedback from parents has been positive and we are seeing interest from families outside Johor wanting to enrol their children in the pilot schools,” he said.
In addition, Aznan mentioned that the state administration planned to improve educational facilities and public conveniences to provide better comfort for students, educators, and guests.
“We are confident that with these improvements, Johor will continue to be a leader in education innovation and excellence.”