APU Welcomes Refugee Students for a Day of Discovery

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On 25 July, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) opened its doors to 56 refugee students and five teachers from ElShaddai Centre for a truly inspiring campus visit. 

The initiative was more than just a tour — it was a day designed to spark curiosity, boost confidence, and give these young learners a glimpse into a future filled with possibilities. 

ElShaddai Centre, based in Klang, Selangor, is a United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)-endorsed partner NGO. Through its ElShaddai Refugee Learning Centre (ERLC), it provides education and support to refugees, asylum-seekers, stateless people groups, and other marginalised communities in Malaysia.

This special event was jointly organised by APU lecturers from the School of Foundation Studies (Ms Iman Danish) and the School of Technology (Assistant Professor Dr Kohila Malar Kalesamy, Ts Umapathy Eaganathan, along with Ms Raja Norliana). 

Learning Through Play and Innovation

The visit was filled with engaging, hands-on activities aimed at developing critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork. 

The day kicked off with the Spaghetti Tower Challenge — a race against time to build the tallest, most stable structure using only spaghetti and marshmallows. It was a test of problem-solving skills, teamwork, and communication.

Next came the Smart Home Design Challenge, where students showcased their ingenuity by creating eco-friendly, future-ready home models using recyclable materials. The level of creativity on display was nothing short of inspiring. 

A Glimpse into Campus Life 

For many of the students, the highlight of the day was the campus tour. Guided by 20 generous APU student volunteers, the young visitors explored cutting-edge facilities — from the library and laboratories to the sports complex — and got an authentic feel for what it’s like to be a university student. 

One participant, Hamna Zaib, expressed her excitement in her own words: 

“The campus is massive and so cool! I loved the library, labs, and sports centre. This visit really showed me what uni life is like, and now I know more about what I want for my future. I’d love to study here one day.” 

Empowering Dreams Through Education

This collaborative effort was not just about showcasing APU’s facilities — it was about igniting ambition and breaking down barriers. By opening its campus to underserved youth, APU provided an opportunity for experiential learning, mentorship, and inspiration that extended far beyond the day’s activities. 

The energy, enthusiasm, and engagement from everyone involved underscored the powerful impact that inclusive education can have when communities come together. 

A Lasting Commitment to Inclusion

APU continues to champion initiatives that create platforms for all students, regardless of background, to dream big and explore new opportunities. Events like this reflect the university’s unwavering belief that education is a force for empowerment — and that when given the right encouragement, every student has the potential to thrive.