KUALA LUMPUR: Proficiency in languages, especially English, is a crucial skill that one must have to enhance their marketability when looking for jobs.
Embracing the importance of English for future career opportunities, a group of Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Rembau campus students went to organise a one-day English proficiency workshop in partnership with students of SMK Seri Pagi in Seremban on Monday.
The campus students who dubbed themselves as 'The Speak Squad,' assisted 74 Form One and Form Three students in improving their communication abilities.
The programme's goal was to promote self-confidence and public speaking skills, particularly among students.
Communication and Media Studies programme adviser and lecturer Muhammad Azril Izuan Ramlan said the workshop, which involved 27 committee members of the UiTM's Public Speaking I co-curriculum course, was part of the university's community outreach project that sought to give back to society whilst improving English proficiency in general.
The programme was divided into five interactive modules - ice breaking, tips and tricks in public speaking, charades, for and against, role-play and toastmasters - that require the students to not only speak in English, but to express their idea and creativity effectively.
Representative of the organising committee Siti Suraya Subarman, 19, said the modules were created and modified to fit the needs of the school pupils with a twist of fun in learning.
"We tend to remember things better when we enjoy the learning process," she said.
SMK Seri Pagi assistant principal (co-curriculum) Mohad Nanzeri Md Karim expressed his gratitude to UiTM Rembau while acknowledging the outreach initiatives aimed at raising students' educational standards.
"Universities and schools are educational institutions, hence it is our responsibility to work hand in hand to make sure that these future leaders have the knowledge and abilities to rule the nation in the long run," added Mohad.