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The Star
3 days ago
- Health
- The Star
Outspoken by choice
I WAS never a chatty person when I was younger. I found it difficult to talk to new acquaintances and make friends. Whenever these social situations arose, my heart would pound in my chest, and I would feel a tightness across it. Even when I had strong points to make, I could not communicate them well. I was also extremely inept at understanding other people's perspectives. The turning point came when my mother registered me for an online Model United Nations (MUN) competition when I was 11, during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. In the first few rounds of debate, I felt disheartened. My speeches were choppy and dry – just a few sentences strung together, barely getting my point across. I had no idea what to do. It felt hopeless. I was on the verge of giving up, but something kept pushing me forward, telling me I could do it – that my points were valid but my delivery needed work. So, I focused on one speech at a time. That was when I began to feel better – not just about speaking, but about stepping out of my comfort zone in a way I never had before. Choosing to pursue public speaking and debate has changed me for the better. I now feel more confident expressing my opinions and making myself heard. It has allowed me to build meaningful relationships with like-minded, talented individuals. I no longer feel anxious about being judged for what I say. I feel freer, as if a heavy weight has been lifted – though I still relapse occasionally. It is difficult to pinpoint when, but I knew this newfound confidence was a gift – an opportunity to spark change. So, I began joining more debate and MUN conferences to meet new people and strengthen my communication skills. I have received the 'Most Improved Delegate' award and the 'Most Outstanding Delegate' award in two conferences. All of this had an after-effect: the desire to use my voice for good. When you are unafraid to speak up, to discuss important topics, and to contribute as part of the generation who will inherit the world, there is a certain high to it – though it is important to stay grounded and avoid sounding self-important. I want to keep growing so I can make an impact on those around me. Since September last year, I have taken on new roles – chairing and crisis-directing in MUN conferences – and I also founded my school's MUN club. This has allowed me to guide fellow delegates, share tips, and give my schoolmates the opportunity to experience the same life-changing growth I went through. I still continue to hone my skills. I have assumed several leadership roles with differing responsibilities, such as serving as commander of my school's sports house from 2023 to 2024, and becoming head prefect this year while focusing on my International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) exams. The desire to grow and change lives gets me out of bed each morning. I don't yet know what my full potential is, but I want to reach it. I hope to empower others to speak up – with the following tips. 1. Grow through practice It is important to push past your fears and start talking. Yes, you will feel terrified at first, but that feeling will fade – and when it does, you will feel incredibly empowered. A good place to start is at school. Step outside your age group and join extracurricular clubs to connect with older students. Try out for leadership roles. Keep reminding yourself to speak up – it will become a habit over time. 2. Read up To build confidence, read up on topics that interest you, especially global issues or current events. For instance, I am fascinated by the militarisation in East Asia. I have found that people who are well-informed are often eager to discuss such topics. Sports is another great conversation starter. People love talking about their favourite Formula One driver or football team. Shared interests often lead to lasting friendships. I have made many friends simply because we support the same football club. 3. Frame your ideas If you want to be heard, start with a bold statement. This will immediately catch listeners' interest. Then back it up with a logical, fact-based explanation and draw a sound conclusion. Most importantly, don't shy away from opposing viewpoints. Embrace the clash of ideas – but be respectful and acknowledge valid points from others. 4. Build fluency A strong grasp of language boosts self-esteem and helps you make a good first impression. Read widely, and keep a small notebook of interesting words. Try to use them in daily conversations. Push yourself to speak even when it feels awkward – eventually, it will become second nature. 5. Never stop Keep striving to improve, and don't back down from challenges. As you grow, stay humble. A good leader listens before they speak. Most of all, aim to leave an impact on your community – something that endures beyond your time. Don't keep the treasure to yourself. Share your lessons and help others grow, too. Thaneish, 17, a student in Selangor, is a participant of the BRATs Young Journalist Programme run by The Star's Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) team. For updates on the BRATs programme, go to With the theme of the article in mind, carry out the following English language activities. 1. In pairs, choose three nouns or verbs from this article. Then, create a short dialogue using those words. Present it to the class. 2. Pair up and take turns talking about a news article that you found most interesting in today's newspaper. The Star's Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) programme promotes English language learning in primary and secondary schools nationwide. For Star-NiE enquiries, email starnie@
Daily Express
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Express
Kian Kok national singing contest to raise funds for needy students
Published on: Thursday, July 17, 2025 Published on: Thu, Jul 17, 2025 Text Size: Paul (middle) with Jimmy on his right, Clement (fifth right) with Eliza on his right. Kota Kinabalu: The 'Voice In The Shadows – Our Concert' National Senior Singing Competition (East Malaysia), scheduled for August 16–17, here, is shaping up to be far more than a musical event. It will be a celebration of senior vocal talent, a platform for national unity, and a significant fundraising initiative for Kian Kok Middle School. Advertisement The event is being organised with a clear dual purpose, that, is to honour senior citizens through music and to raise funds for educational support, particularly for students in need. This year's Grand Finals will welcome Tan Sri Paul Lim Pau Chang and Datuk Clement Yeh as Special VIP Guests, both of whom bring a strong commitment to cultural exchange and social impact. At a recent luncheon hosted by the Opening Committee, led by Datuk Eliza Goh, influential figures including Jimmy Goh came together not just to promote the concert, but to discuss broader themes of education, social development, and regional collaboration. 'This is an opportunity to build bridges between East and West Malaysia. Music transcends boundaries, and platforms like this can also promote business opportunities and broader collaborations across regions,' said Paul. Echoing his view, Eliza, who is also a member of the Kian Kok Middle School Board said beyond the music, this is a valuable avenue for fostering mutual respect and meaningful cultural exchanges. 'Through initiatives like this, we can bridge not only geographical distances but also social and educational divides,' she said. Chairman of the Board of Kian Kok Middle School, Clement, also expressed his personal commitment to the cause. 'Education is the foundation of our society, and it is our duty to ensure that no child is left behind due to financial difficulties. 'I'm heartened to see initiatives like this that not only entertain but also uplift,' he said. The competition is raising funds specifically to support financially challenged students at Kian Kok Middle School, a prominent institution in Sabah. Clement further shared the school's progressive educational direction, including the recent introduction of a culinary programme and the globally recognised IGCSE curriculum. 'We are committed to maintaining Kian Kok Middle School's role as a premier institution of learning in Sabah. 'By introducing new programmes such as culinary arts and IGCSE, we are preparing our students not just for local success but for international opportunities,' he said. Jimmy, appointed as Event Advisor, will guide the strategic execution of the concert to ensure its cultural and charitable goals are successfully achieved. Eliza said: 'Supporting education is one of the most impactful ways we can contribute to society. Through this event, we hope to showcase not only the rich talents of our seniors but also the importance of uplifting our youth.' As the Grand Finals draw near, the Organising Committee invites community members, corporate partners, and philanthropists to join in this unique celebration of music, unity, and hope helping ensure that education remains a beacon of opportunity for future generations. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Business Wire
10-07-2025
- Science
- Business Wire
Future Scientists From Europe Shine in Global Cambridge Schools Science Competition
CAMBRIDGE, England--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Three student teams from schools across Europe have won awards in the 2025 Cambridge Science Competition, run by the International Education group at Cambridge University Press & Assessment (Cambridge). The winning teams are from Türkiye, Ukraine, and Czech Republic and were selected by an expert panel of judges at the University of Cambridge for the high calibre of their projects, each of which aim to tackle real-world sustainability issues. Record numbers of students from Cambridge international schools across Europe are applying scientific thinking to address real-world challenges. Share The global Cambridge Science Competition, an extracurricular program for students aged 14–16, fosters a passion for innovation, research and critical thinking while honing practical lab skills. Participants are challenged to design projects with real-world relevance to their schools or communities, focusing on sustainability. This year, the competition saw record entries from student teams who are studying for Cambridge IGCSE science qualifications, taught across 6,000 schools globally. Best in Europe winner – Türkiye Students from Beştepe College in Türkiye took the top European prize for a pioneering investigation into the use of pinecone-derived probiotics to improve bean crop yields. By creating biodegradable probiotic beads, the team demonstrated a remarkable 105% increase in bean plant growth over 20 days. Their research could suggest a sustainable, low-cost alternative to chemical fertilizers. Ilgın Yıldırım Usta, IGCSE Biology Teacher, said: 'This project was more than just science—it became a chance for us to connect with something bigger: our responsibility to the environment and the future of agriculture.' Student, Ece Aydın, added: 'This experience has inspired me to keep asking questions, stay curious, and continue working on solutions that can help both people and the planet.' Team photo available here. Country Award - Ukraine A team of students from Gymnasium A+ school in Ukraine earned a Country Award for developing biodegradable bioplastics from brown seaweed. Their eco-friendly material offers a flexible, rapidly decomposing alternative to single-use plastics, addressing a pressing environmental issue. Student, Amina Sorochynska said: 'Winning a prize in this competition feels amazing. We're passionate about environmental issues and wanted to find a biodegradable alternative to plastic. It's great to know that our idea was thought to be potentially so useful.' Team photo available here. Country Award - Czech Republic Students from Townshend International School in the Czech Republic also received a Country Award for their study of moss species' ability to absorb water and filter pollutants. Their project showed how mosses could be used to combat drought and improve water quality, offering a natural bio-filtration and conservation solution. Student Abigail said: 'After winning, I feel much more confident in my abilities to problem-solve and design solutions. This experience has motivated me to take on more science projects in the future.' Team photo available here. Christine Ozden, Global Director for Climate Education at Cambridge, said: 'These students are a shining example of what's possible when young minds are given the opportunity to explore science in creative, meaningful ways. These three outstanding projects show how Cambridge students across Europe are using science to address real-world challenges. What unites them is not only great scientific thinking and application, but a deep sense of responsibility toward shaping a better future.' For more information about the competition, visit Cambridge Science Competition winners 2025.
Roya News
07-07-2025
- Business
- Roya News
Ostathi: Microsoft-backed platform for online tutoring, professional training in Jordan
In a transformative leap for digital education in the Middle East, Ostathi, a Microsoft-supported online tutoring and training marketplace, has officially launched in Jordan—with ambitious plans to expand to Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Egypt, Turkey, Iraq, and beyond. Developed by UniHouse, a UK-based global consultancy specializing in education, curriculum development, exam management, capacity building, scholarship management, finance, and digital innovation; and recognized by the UK Government and The Daily Telegraph for its innovation. Ostathi is not just another edtech platform; it's a bold step toward equitable, personalized, and accessible learning for all. What Is Ostathi? Ostathi (Arabic for "My Teacher") is a comprehensive online learning ecosystem designed to connect learners with vetted tutors and industry-certified trainers. Whether you're a school student aiming for academic excellence or a professional seeking career-advancing skills, Ostathi offers a one-stop solution. Academic Tutoring for Grades 1–12 (National Curriculum, Tawjihi, IGCSE, IB, A-Levels, American Diploma) Professional Skills Training (IT, Project Management, Digital Marketing, Languages, Business, PMP, etc.) Free CEFR-Aligned English Level Indicator Integrated Virtual Classroom: Featuring Video Calls, Whiteboards, Session Recording, Live AI Translation, & Secure Payments Tutor/Trainer Ratings and Reviews for Quality Assurance Mobile-Responsive Platform for Learning Anytime, Anywhere 'Ostathi is more than an app—it's a movement. We are reshaping how students and professionals in Jordan and across the region learn, grow, and earn.' — Wafa Edwan, Project Director at UniHouse Made for Your Country: Localized, Not Generic Unlike international platforms with a one-size-fits-all model, Ostathi is designed for local realities. With full support for Jordan's national curriculum, it ensures students receive contextually accurate instruction. This means parents can easily find vetted Tawjihi tutors or specialized IGCSE tutors in Amman and other cities, confident that the teaching aligns perfectly with local standards. Tutors and trainers are carefully vetted by education professionals, with ongoing support to help them grow successful online teaching businesses. Empowering Educators & Boosting the Jordanian Economy Ostathi also represents a powerful new economic model. It provides flexible work from home teaching jobs in Jordan, enabling educators, freelancers, and industry specialists to monetize their expertise. For many, this is a chance to build a sustainable online career without needing to invest in complex tech or marketing. Did You Know? Jordan is home to over 100,000 educators. Ostathi offers an inclusive income opportunity for these professionals—especially women, fresh graduates, and those in rural areas. Powered by Microsoft: Trust, Scale, and Innovation Ostathi is built on secure infrastructure through the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub. This partnership guarantees cutting-edge technology, performance reliability, and top-tier data protection as the platform scales regionally. Find Your Perfect Tutor, Wherever You Are Ostathi algorithm is engineered to connect you with the right expert, fast. Our smart search allows users in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Morocco, Turkey and Egypt to find the ideal local instructor for any subject. Whether you are searching for "online tutoring in Jordan" or "PMP training in Riyadh," our platform uses localized filters and dedicated country pages (like to deliver the most relevant results. Frequently Asked Questions about Ostathi 1. What subjects can I get tutoring for on Ostathi? Ostathi offers academic tutoring for all major subjects in the Jordanian National Curriculum, Tawjihi, IGCSE, IB, A-Levels, and American Diploma from grades 1-12. 2. Is Ostathi only for students in Jordan? While launched in Jordan, Ostathi is expanding rapidly. We will soon be available in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iraq, Turkey and Morocco, offering localized tutors and courses for each country. 3. How are the tutors and trainers on Ostathi verified? All our educators go through a vetting process conducted by UniHouse education specialists. We verify their academic credentials and professional experience to ensure the highest quality of instruction. 4. Can I find professional courses like PMP training on the platform? Yes, definitely. Ostathi is a professional marketplace that empowers both trainers and trainees. Our expert trainers offer courses in high-demand fields, helping trainees gain the skills they need for career growth. You can find courses for PMP training in Jordan, digital marketing, programming, and more. Powered by UniHouse: A Legacy of Global Trust Ostathi is proudly developed by UniHouse, a UK-based educational consultancy with a legacy of over two decades. UniHouse is a trusted implementation partner for governments, global development organizations including the World Bank, UNDP, JICA, and UNOPS, and industry leaders like BP, Shell, and JGC Corporation of Japan. This extensive experience is channeled through the South-to-South Knowledge Transfer model, a philosophy ensuring platforms like Ostathi are locally adapted, nationally aligned, and globally scalable. What's Next? A Glimpse into the Future of Learning Following the 2025 Jordan launch, Ostathi will be live in Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt by Q4 2025, with further expansion planned for 2026. The roadmap is packed with cutting-edge features, including: AI Curriculum Assistant: A revolutionary tool giving students and educators access to AI models fine-tuned on local curricula. This provides instant, accurate homework help for students and powerful lesson-planning resources for educators. AI-Powered Tutor Matching: Intelligently connecting students with the perfect instructor based on their needs. Live AI Translation: Breaking down language barriers in real-time. Parental Dashboards: Offering parents clear insights into their child's progress. Get Started with Ostathi Today
The Star
05-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Students, parents throng Star Education Fair 2025 in JB
JOHOR BARU: Students and parents alike are making the most of their weekend by dropping by the Star Education Fair 2025 to explore the wide array of academic opportunities on offer. Among the visitors were sisters Belinda Goh, 21, and Regina Goh, 19, who stumbled upon the education fair after having breakfast near the convention centre. 'We saw the banners and signs for the fair and decided to just drop by to check things out. 'I've been to other education fairs before, but this is the first time for my sister, and I hope we can learn a thing or two here,' said Belinda when met at the fair held at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre here. Regina, who is taking the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), said she hopes to find out more about culinary programmes available at the fair. 'I am interested in culinary arts and I'm looking forward to discovering the local options available for me here,' she said. Also taking the opportunity to look out for education opportunities was 40-year-old lecturer Assoc Prof Hairul Azmi Mohamed. "I believe it is important for us to know about the latest technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), so that we can keep up with the fast-changing world. "So, I'm here to look out for courses related to technology, which may be helpful for the future of the maritime industry," said the maritime management and operations lecturer. Organised by Star Media Group, the two-day fair features 40 institutions occupying over 55 booths, offering a wide range of programmes and consultations. The fair, which is being conducted in Johor for the first time, offers various tertiary study options along with financial assistance such as study loans and scholarships. The fair, which is being held on Saturday (July 5) and Sunday (July 6), runs from 11am to 6pm at the Persada International Convention Centre here. Among the exhibitors are UniKL, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), University of Southampton Malaysia, Asia Aeronautical Training Academy, Singapore's At-Sunrice GlobalChef Academy, Southern University College, Netherlands Maritime University College (NMUC), Educity International College (EIC) and Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia (NUMed). The Star Education Fair, now in its 38th year, is one of the country's pioneer education exhibitions. It has consistently provided visitors with information on educational programmes ranging from pre-university, diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate courses to professional and vocational training offered by various local and international institutions. For more details on the Star Education Fair, visit or email edufair@
