APU’s ESG Programme Adds Up to a Better Future!

APU’s School of Mathematics, Actuarial & Quantitative Studies (SOMAQS) is excited to share with you the impactful initiatives that have unfolded as part of our Environment, Social & Governance (ESG) programme in collaboration with secondary school students.

On September 7, 2023, SOMAQS welcomed a total of 82 Form Four and Form Five students to the campus, along with their four teachers from SMK Seksyen 1, Bandar Kinrara, Puchong, to participate in the Additional Mathematics Strengthening ESG Programme 2023.

The diverse objectives of the event include improving students’ mathematical skills, raising awareness of the importance of mathematics, exposing these students to the practical applications of this subject in our daily lives, alleviating their anxieties about mathematics, introducing them to career opportunities in the field of mathematics, and supporting the school in various ways to make a positive contribution to the local community.

The day commenced with a welcoming speech by Associate Professor Dr. Rajasegeran Ramasamy, the Head of SOMAQS, followed by encouraging words and briefings from the secondary school teachers.

The first activity for the students was “Mathematics Crafting Using Desmos.” Students were divided into groups of four. Each group had to utilize mathematical equations, such as the equation of a circle or quadratic equation, with different domains of x and ranges of y, to outline a given picture. Through this activity, these young minds were equipped with the tools, knowledge, and skills they needed to achieve specific objectives within the allotted time.

The next activity was Tic Tac Toe. Each of the 7 x 7 boxes contained a mathematics question, and at each turn, the group selected one box to answer a mathematics question. They had 15 seconds to answer each question. The first two groups that correctly answered and occupied any five boxes in a straight line, whether vertically, horizontally, or diagonally, were declared the winners.

“By making mathematics engaging, understandable, and enjoyable, we help these young learners appreciate this subject even more. During these activities, students can sharpen their problem-solving skills, boost their self-confidence, and develop an interest in the subject of Mathematics,” said Ms. Sarah Musa, a lecturer at SOMAQS who acted as one of the facilitators for the event.

After a lunch break, students were introduced to career opportunities in the field of mathematics and all the available programmes at APU. These presentations were delivered by the Actuarial Studies Programme Leader, Mr. Ong Li Kee, and the Student Services Executive, Ms. Cynthia Chuo Yee Yin.

The final activity of the day was the “Wheel of Names,” where eight lucky students were selected from this wheel of names and had a chance to answer mathematics questions.

The event concluded with a closing speech by APU’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Ho Chin Kuan, followed by a prize-giving ceremony. Puan Aidahapini Bt Derum, SMK Seksyen 1’s Senior Subject Teacher for Science and Mathematics, presented SOMAQS with a token of appreciation for organising this programme.

The power of ESG lies not only in contributing to society but also in empowering the next generation to become compassionate, responsible, and visionary leaders. Together, we are sowing the seeds of change and fostering a brighter future.