INTI International University recently conducted an English Clinic programme at Sekolah Rendah Jenis Kebangsaan (T) Nilai on 19 April as part of its University Social Responsibility (USR) initiatives. The clinic aims to help young students aged seven to nine improve their reading, writing, and English communication skills.
INTI International University lecturers and students at Sekolah Rendah Jenis Kebangsaan (T) Nilai engage in an animated English session, enhancing language skills through personalised guidance and interactive activities.
The school selected 22 students to participate in the programme. Led by six lecturers and several dedicated undergraduates from INTI, these weekly sessions offer personalised attention and tailored instruction to address each student’s unique needs.
“This initiative seeks to support primary students struggling with English, reflecting our commitment to community involvement and academic enrichment. The English Clinic provides a nurturing environment where students receive personalised guidance to enhance their language skills,” said Siti Nurbaayah Daud, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Business and Communications (FBC) at INTI.
The English Clinic’s primary goals are not just to improve students’ reading and writing abilities but to instil a renewed enthusiasm for learning and a sense of achievement. By the end of the programme, students are expected to identify upper- and lower-case alphabets, read elementary-level books, engage in simple English conversations, and have a positive mindset towards their academic progress and future opportunities. These foundational skills and a positive attitude are not just essential, but they are the key to unlocking their potential and shaping their bright future.
INTI’s team, driven by a passion for education, dedicates one hour each week to assisting children. They teach them new words, encourage speaking and reading aloud, help them write in English, show videos on new vocabulary, and create fun learning games. The students’ great interest and active participation testify to the team’s commitment. INTI hopes that with continued support, the students will become familiar with the alphabet and learn to write proper sentences and read well. Still, they will also develop a lifelong love for learning.
“I proposed the English Clinic to reach out to students who need special attention to boost their confidence in their studies. Health issues, family conditions, and surroundings may have affected students’ interest in learning. Regular interaction and special care can help reignite their interest,” explained Klara Arokiyasamy, a senior lecturer at FBC.
Kalaveny Kanagasingam, another senior lecturer at the FBC, shared her thoughts: “It was a great opportunity to help the children at the Tamil school improve their English. Since English is not their native language, primary-level students find it challenging to learn and speak in English, especially if no one in their families speaks English at home.”
Additionally, Dr. Bahiah A Malek, a senior lecturer at the same faculty, noted, “Some students can catch up with the teaching, while others are still lagging. Time is insufficient to keep up with the teaching schedule, allowing us to cover only 10% of the planned material. However, students show improvement through bi-weekly sessions.”
Dr Bahiah A. Malek, a senior lecturer from the Faculty of Business and Communications (FBC) at INTI International University, guides a student at the English Clinic in Sekolah Rendah Jenis Kebangsaan (T) Nilai. This initiative is part of the university’s commitment to improving English proficiency among primary school children.
Dr Bahiah explained, “The main goal for the next four months is to ensure students can recognise and write upper- and lower-case alphabets and read elementary-level English. We are building their vocabulary through action songs, reading, and activities. As a small community of practice, we may not be able to do great things, but we are highly motivated to do small things with great love.”
Echoing the initiative’s success, Kala Rengasamy, the headmistress of Sekolah Rendah Jenis Kebangsaan (T) Nilai, expressed, “The workshop held voluntarily on Friday mornings by INTI’s dedicated lecturers has shown success. The initiative aimed at helping children with learning disabilities and slower learners has helped them gain confidence and break barriers to using the language. We want to thank each of them for bringing their expertise and passion to the classroom. They are so patient, encouraging, and loving.”
The English Clinic benefits not only the students directly involved but also has a broader impact on the community. By enhancing students’ English language skills, the programme contributes to their future academic and career opportunities, ultimately benefiting society.