APU Psychology Students Embrace Empathy through the 2-Way Special Educational Needs Camp

The School of Psychology (SoP) at the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) recently carried out its Annual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative — the “2-Way Special Educational Needs Camp”, held from 14 to 19 September 2025 at Chalet Rimbun Hijau, Yan, Kedah.

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This year’s programme brought together children and teenagers with special needs, along with APU’s psychology undergraduates, in a week-long journey of growth, learning, and compassion. 

The camp was organised by the 2-Way Centre, an assessment and intervention organisation based in Penang that offers affordable services for children with developmental, communication, and learning challenges. 

Understanding the ‘2-Way’ Approach

The term “2-Way Special Educational Needs” refers to twice-exceptional (2e) students — individuals who are both gifted and have learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD, or autism. These children often face unique struggles that require empathy, patience, and tailored approaches to help them flourish. 

Guided by APU lecturers Mr Jaff Choong Gian Yong and Mr Tan Wei Yu, and supported by psychology undergraduates Akshara Mutateesa, Chua Khai Tim, He FeiFan, Maryam Pirbhoy, and Tiffani, the camp served as a real-world classroom where theories of human behaviour came alive through shared experience. 

Hands-On Learning and Heartfelt Connection

Across six days and five nights, participants and volunteers engaged in a variety of enriching activities — from hiking, swimming, cooking, and dancing to drawing and playing games such as Bingo. Evenings were filled with warmth and laughter during talent shows and movie nights under the stars.

One of the most touching moments was the outdoor cinema experience, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the jungle — a reminder that joy can be found in life’s simplest moments. Hiking through the forest also proved to be a milestone for many, testing their perseverance and encouraging self-discovery. 

For APU students, this experience went beyond service — it became a lesson in humanity. With no Wi-Fi or digital distractions, they learned to observe, listen, and connect with children whose emotions spoke louder than words. 

Growth for All

By the end of the camp, the transformation was evident. The special needs participants gained confidence, independence, and social resilience, while the volunteers walked away with deeper empathy and insight into inclusive education. 

“It was so meaningful to see the children’s progress — it felt almost like being a proud parent,” shared Chua Khai Tim, a first-year psychology student. 

“This camp wasn’t just about caregiving; it was about truly understanding each child — especially during their emotional meltdowns,” reflected Tiffani, a second-year student. 

“Spending time with them opened me up to so many emotions. Despite the mosquito bites and icy showers, it was all worth it,” laughed Maryam Pirbhoy, also a Year-2 student. 

More Than a Camp — A Lesson for Life

The 2-Way Special Educational Needs Camp once again reaffirmed that compassion and understanding are at the heart of psychology. It wasn’t just a CSR initiative — it was a transformative journey of learning, connection, and shared humanity, where every participant, big or small, walked away having learned something invaluable about the beauty of being different.