EDUCATION PROJECT FOR URBAN POOR CHILDREN

Hello! I am Sarah Abdullah – I am with the Penang Community Concerned Organisation (PCCO) – a non-profit organization as Community Development Officer.

I am here today to appeal for your strong support and crowdfunding to meet an education project proposed to start early January 2019 – One (1) year long “English Reading & Writing Programme” for urban poor children age 4+5+6 of all races from our local community.

This programme is proposed by a group of urban poor mothers from our local community and a team of concerned teachers from the local schools during a recent round table discussion with PCCO members. The interview survey and discussions with this group reveals their stress/frustration about their school going children struggling in English language.

Our Malaysian education system has been constantly criticised and ridiculed by the Malaysian themselves for being outdated and stale. Many Malaysians have insisted that the Ministry of Education reform the system to create holistic students, but the call for reformation was in vain as the system stayed pretty much the same with only minimal changes. However, with the emergence of a new government, Malaysians are now looking to revamp the education system to create students that are able to compete on an international platform.

Recent news reports that poor command of English is among major reasons for Malaysian graduates unemployment in Malaysia today. Study reveals the root cause of the problem is due to poor emphasis on the language in early childhood education. At most educational levels prior to the teritiary level, the chances of learning or even mastering the English language are limited as there is only one English subject in the curriculum.

As a caring society, it is our duty to help the underpriveledge children. They deserve equal rights in education and we – a team of retired ex-English school teachers and young mothers from our local community have come to a conclusion making some positive changes to ensure that these urban poor children are NOT deprived of their rights to education and that English is NOT pushed aside! Education is the most powerful weapon which one can use to change the world!

Participating children will also be engaged in “HEALTHY KIDS PROGRAMME” - This is to increase the knowledge and awareness of parents and teachers about the importance of healthy eating and physical activity in tackling obesity, thereby inculcating a healthier culture in children in and outside school. Once a month Health Consultants will be invited to hold talks to educate the children, young mothers including teachers on healthy food/nutrition. Healtlhy snacks/beverages will be served during break time for participating children.

Cultural Exchange Programmes will be included. Students from International schools in Penang will be engaged in this programme. The main objective is to enhance English proficiency among our children fluently and efficiently. This programme provides opportunities to gain new skills and knowledge. Programmes have an aim of helping to increase the participants' understanding and tolerance of other cultures, as well as improving their language skills and broadening their social horizons.

TOTAL FUND REQUIRED

Minimum USD9000

This amount will be utilized to cover allowances for qualified Facilitators, Asst. Facilitators, Project Co-ordinator, Honorarium for Consultants, Specialists, Speakers, Support Groups, Internship, Children Breakfast Program, Premises Rental, purchase of sports items, educational books/materials, monthly birthday celebrations for children engaged in this project, transportation expenses for field trips, cross cultural programmes, meetings, talks , workshop, secretarial / administration, etc….

CONCLUSION

“Children of today are the leaders of tomorrow - education is a very important weapon to prepare children for their future roles as leaders of the community." Nelson Mandela

In my humble opinion, every student should be treated equally as quality education should be enjoyed by every young Malaysian regardless of race or religion. Together, we can do more than shine a spotlight on the importance of early childhood development. We can commit to action.

We look forward your kind consideration and strong support in this matter

Service to humanity is service to god!

Thank you.

Sarah Abdullah

PCCO – Community Dev. Project Co-ordinator