Page 21 - MENDAKI Annual Report 2019

BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF SUCCESS Recognising success in diverse fields Our education landscape is constantly evolving to align with the changes in the operating landscape. The education system has seen a series of changes such as the reduction in the number of primary and secondary school assessments, abolishment of examinations for selected levels and the creation of multiple progression pathways. In line with these developments, the Ministry of Education (MOE) announced in 2019 the removal of the Normal (Technical), Normal (Academic) and Express streams in favour of the new full subject- based banding system. It was a move meant to reduce stigmatisation associated with being in a ‘slower’ stream, while providing students with greater flexibility in taking subjects at a level most suited to them (Tan, 2019). Aligned with this, MENDAKI is refining the MENDAKI Tuition Scheme (MTS) further taking into considerations the learning needs of our students and the current practices and policies at school. We are enhancing upstream support for MTS students in Mathematics and Science and providing differentiated learning for our lower performing students through small coaching groups. A pilot conducted in 2019 showed great promise. We also work with MOE as an UPLIFT (Uplifting Pupils in Life and Inspiring Families Taskforce) partner to ensure more students who need the academic support and resources receive the full spectrum of assistance available for them. To recognise students who have made a positive impact in the lives of others, MENDAKI has instituted the “Anugerah Gemilang MENDAKI” (Pinnacle Award). This award is given to students who have shown excellence beyond academic and co-curricular pursuits. Empowerment of youths is an important component towards building a Community of Success. Our youth will be more empowered to pursue excellence in different fields with the right advice and role models. MENDAKI has been implementing the Empowerment Programme for Boys and Empowerment Programme for Girls for Malay/Muslim Institute of Technical Education (ITE) students. This mentoring programme aims to strengthen critical life skills and provide youth with advice on future education and professional pathways. With the establishment of MENDAKI’s new Youth Mentoring Office, and the dissemination 19 MENDAKI ANNUAL REPORT 2019