As part of the Knowledge Transfer Programme (KTP), Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) collaborated with SMK Seksyen 1, Bandar Kinrara, Puchong to organise a series of impactful workshops aimed at equipping form five students with essential mathematical tools.

Organised by the School of Mathematics, Actuarial and Quantitative Studies (SoMAQS), the workshops were designed to provide hands-on experience with industry-standard software, empowering students with key skills in data analysis and problem-solving.

First Workshop: Matrix Laboratory Workshop

The first workshop held on 27th July 2024, focused on Matrix Laboratory (MATLAB), introducing students to advanced mathematical concepts like Differentiation and Integration in Additional Mathematics.

Dr Rahimah Abdul Rafar (Lecturer, SoMAQS at APU) and Mr Mohamed Ubaidullah (Lecturer, SoMAQS at APU) led the engaging session, offering their specialised expertise to guide students through a series of practical problem-solving exercises using MATLAB, enabling them to gain a deeper understanding of how the software can be applied to real-world mathematical challenges.

Second Workshop: Microsoft Excel Workshop

The second workshop held on 24th August 2024, focused on Microsoft Excel, introducing students to its powerful capabilities for data organisation and analysis.

Led by Ms Sarah Haji Musa (Lecturer, SoMAQS at APU) and supported by Ms Hazlina Darman (Lecturer, SoMAQS at APU), the workshop covered Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Dispersion, and Linear Programming.

Through hands-on tasks, students learned to analyse data, apply statistical functions, and use Microsoft Excel’s tools for real-world problem-solving, gaining insight into the practical applications of mathematics across various fields.

Third Workshop: R Programming Workshop

The final workshop held on 12th September 2024, introduced students to R Programming.

Guided by Mr Lee Chee Nian (Lecturer, SoMAQS at APU) and Ms Nur Amanina Zawali (Lecturer, SoMAQS at APU), the session focused on statistical computing and data visualisation, with a deep dive into Matrices and Measures of Dispersion.

Through the foundational skills gained, students learned to manipulate data and create visual representations that enhanced their understanding of complex mathematical concepts while exploring the intersection of mathematics and data science in preparation for future studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

Empowering Students for the future

The workshop series culminated with a certificate-giving ceremony, recognising the efforts and achievements of all students.

APU’s Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Ho Chin Kuan and Assoc Prof Dr Rajasegeran Ramasamy (Head of School, SoMAQS at APU), personally presented certificates to the students during a memorable ceremony that marked the conclusion of the programme while celebrating the remarkable growth and dedication of the students in developing essential mathematical skills.

This initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing young talent in the mathematical and analytical fields, setting the stage for future innovators to thrive in a data-driven world.