Universiti Malaysia Sabah
Professor@School
-
Empowering Tomorrow’s Innovators — Bridging Knowledge, Schools, and Sustainability.
Professor@School is Universiti Malaysia Sabah’s flagship knowledge-sharing and community education initiative, where professors and lecturers bring university expertise directly to schools and local communities.The programme connects education, research, and societal impact, reflecting UMS’s commitment to the Sustainability. The Professor@School programme partners dedicated academics with school communities to ignite curiosity, build critical-thinking skills, and open doors to future opportunities. Through hands-on workshops, inspiring talks, real-world challenges and mentorship, the programme brings the world of research and innovation into the classroom.
-
Why it matters:
- It bridges the gap between university expertise and school students—giving them early exposure to cutting-edge ideas and real-life problem-solving.
- It fosters a culture of inquiry and lifelong learning by showing students that education isn’t just about exams—it’s about exploration, creativity and impact.
- It fosters a culture of inquiry and lifelong learning by showing students that education isn’t just about exams—it’s about exploration, creativity and impact.
- It aligns with the broader mission of nurturing local talent and strengthening community-university links.
-
Key features:
- Renowned professors from Universiti Malaysia Sabah engage directly with students through interactive sessions tailored to their grade levels.
- Workshops include hands-on experiments, design-thinking challenges, and guided projects that align with curriculum goals—while going beyond into real-world applications.
- Mentorship and follow-up activities ensure students don’t just attend—they apply, reflect and build on what they’ve learned.
- Community-based focus: The programme prioritises underserved schools, rural outreach, and ensuring all students benefit from the university’s knowledge-transfer mission..
-
Impact Vision:
By enabling early engagement with higher-level thinking, the Professor@School programme seeks to:
- Increase student confidence in STEM, innovation and research-based learning.
- Enhance school readiness for tertiary education and enable more students to consider STEM/higher-learning pathways.
- Deepen the relationship between Universiti Malaysia Sabah and local community schools—making knowledge accessible, actionable and relevant.
- Community-based focus: The programme prioritises underserved schools, rural outreach, and ensuring all students benefit from the university’s knowledge-transfer mission..
Program Highlight
15
OCT
October, 15 2025
Professor@School with Sekolah Kebangsaan Kebagu
Kota Kinabalu, 15 October 2025 – The Borneo Marine Research Institute (IPMB), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), through its Professor@School Sustainability Series, successfully hosted the programme “DIVE INTO STEM: Marine & Aqua Adventure”, welcoming 50 students and 7 teachers from Kebagu National Primary School (SK Kebagu) for an immersive marine science experience at the UMS Marine Museum and Aquarium.
The programme, coordinated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abentin Estim, offered participants a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of marine biodiversity and learn about the importance of ocean ecosystems in sustaining life on Earth. Students observed various species of fish, corals, and marine organisms, while also being introduced to diving equipment and marine research tools used by UMS scientists and students in real-world studies.
This initiative served as an engaging platform to bridge the gap between the university and schools, fostering early curiosity in marine science, ocean sustainability, and STEM education. By combining hands-on learning with scientific exploration, the programme encouraged students to appreciate the vital role of oceans in maintaining ecological balance and combating climate change.
Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 13 – Climate Action, and SDG 14 – Life Below Water), the Professor@School: Marine & Aqua Adventure exemplifies UMS’s mission to inspire the next generation of young environmental stewards who will champion the protection of our marine ecosystems for a sustainable future.
11
OCT
October, 11-13 2025
Professor@School with SMK Omar
Sipitang, 11–13 October 2025 – Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), through its Professor@School initiative, successfully organised OUTREACH 2.0: Empowering Future Foresters at Pengiran Omar National Secondary School (SMK Pengiran Omar), Sipitang. The three-day programme was designed to bridge science, sustainability, and community engagement by nurturing students’ awareness of the importance of forests, biodiversity, and environmental conservation.
The initiative aimed to bring forestry science and technology closer to young learners, empowering them with the knowledge and values needed to become future environmental stewards. Throughout the programme, participants took part in a series of engaging activities, including knowledge-sharing sessions by UMS academics, interactive workshops, science exhibitions, and hands-on forestry activities led by the Faculty of Tropical Forestry (FPT), UMS.
Operating under the theme “Our Forest, Our Priority,” the programme highlighted the role of forests as vital ecosystems supporting biodiversity, climate regulation, and sustainable livelihoods. The collaboration also involved contributions from local communities, reinforcing the importance of collective action in protecting natural heritage.
This outreach reflects UMS’s ongoing commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:
- SDG 4 – Quality Education: enhancing science literacy and environmental learning through experiential education.
- SDG 13 – Climate Action: fostering awareness on forests’ role in climate mitigation and resilience.
- SDG 15 – Life on Land: promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable forest management.
By linking education, community, and sustainability, the Professor@School Sustainability Series continues to empower young Malaysians to become knowledgeable, responsible, and sustainability-minded citizens who will safeguard the nation’s forests for generations to come.
21
AUG
August, 21 2025
Professor@School with SMK Usukan
Professor@School Sustainability Series with SMK Usukan, Kota Belud was successfully conducted at the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Ramsar Site, showcasing UMS’s commitment to environmental education and community-based sustainability learning.
The session began with a programme and safety briefing by the Wetland Centre staff, followed by an interpretative walk through the mangrove ecosystem. Participants explored the interconnected roles of mangroves in carbon storage, coastal protection, and biodiversity conservation, while observing the diverse flora and fauna that thrive within the wetland habitat.
In the spirit of hands-on sustainability, students and participants also joined in a mangrove seedling planting activity, contributing directly to ecosystem restoration and climate resilience. Beyond conservation, the experience fostered a deeper appreciation for how community action and education can drive local solutions to global environmental challenges, aligning with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
5
AUG
Aug 5, 2025
Professor@School with SMK Tandek
The Biotechnology Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) conducted an engaging Professor@School outreach at SMK Tandek, Kota Marudu, to inspire students’ curiosity in science, technology, and sustainable innovation. Led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mailin Misson, the programme introduced students to the fascinating world of microorganisms and biotechnology through an interactive STEM Talk, quizzes, and six hands-on learning stations.
Through activities such as microscopy, Gram staining, bacterial culture, and fungal observation, students explored how microorganisms play vital roles in health, food safety, and environmental balance. The initiative strengthened their appreciation of how biotechnology supports sustainable solutions in daily life and the economy. This aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Innovation & Infrastructure), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production), reinforcing UMS’s mission to nurture future-ready, sustainability-minded learners.
29
JUL
July, 29 2025
Professor@School with SMK Petagas
The Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), in collaboration with Petagas National Secondary School (SMK Petagas), successfully conducted Professor@School Phase 2, an initiative aimed at enhancing science literacy and fostering interest in STEM fields through experiential learning for sustainability.
A total of 68 students from Form 3 and Form 4 participated in this impactful engagement. Among the programme highlights were Interactive Lab Activities such as Banana DNA Extraction, Match the Nucleotides, and The Seed Journey, followed by an Inspiring Talk titled Science in Everyday Life delivered by Prof. Dr. Zaleha A. Aziz. The event received strong support from U-Science UMS, faculty members of FST, and dedicated teachers from SMK Petagas. The programme was officiated by Mr. Safri bin Jeffri, Principal of SMK Petagas, together with Mr. Zawawi Datuk Tiyunin, Director of U-Science UMS, as the guest of honour.
This initiative created meaningful sustainability impact by promoting direct knowledge transfer in science, increasing student motivation toward STEM and green innovation, and offering early exposure to the university’s academic and research culture. It also nurtured 21st-century skills such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking — essential for building resilient, future-ready learners.
Aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure, and SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities), the programme reinforces UMS’s mission to integrate sustainability in education, bridging university–school partnerships for inclusive and transformative learning.
Such initiatives demonstrate the effectiveness of community-based education in nurturing a scientifically literate, creative, and sustainability-driven generation, and underscore the importance of expanding this model to more schools across Sabah in the years to come.
29
SEP
July, 29 2025
Professor@School with Kolej Vokasional Likas
A total of 40 students from Likas Vocational College had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of sustainable construction technology through the Professor@School Programme, jointly organised by U-Science Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the Faculty of Engineering.
The session was led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Habib Musa Mohammad and Dr. Nurul Shahadahtul Afizah Azman, experts in civil engineering, together with Mr. Afflizailizam Ali Hassan, Assistant Manager of the UMS Brick Workshop. The facilitators shared their technical expertise and guided students through a hands-on session on sustainable brick fabrication, integrating scientific knowledge with practical applications.
Through the experiential learning approach, participants not only learned the theoretical aspects of material composition and construction science but also gained practical exposure by producing concrete bricks using actual moulds and eco-friendly mixtures.
This initiative is part of UMS’s broader effort to extend university expertise to schools and colleges through the Professor@School Sustainability Series, supporting the empowerment of technical and vocational education (TVET) and promoting the real-world application of engineering knowledge.
The programme effectively inspired students to explore green engineering solutions and sustainable building technologies, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities).
By bridging academic knowledge with community practice, Professor@School continues to play a crucial role in cultivating future-ready technical talents who can contribute to Malaysia’s transition toward a more innovative and sustainable construction industry.
25
JUN
June 25, 2025
Professor@School with SMK Kundasang
The Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition (FSMP), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) welcomed 22 students and 2 teachers for a sustainability-focused Professor@School programme, led by Prof. Dr. Patricia Clementina Matanjun.
The visit aimed to enhance awareness of sustainable food systems and the role of science and innovation in promoting healthy and eco-friendly diets. Participants toured the Halal Research and Service Centre (PPPH), nutrition and food instrumentation laboratories, food analysis labs, and the pilot processing plant, gaining real-world exposure to food technology and research for sustainability.
An exclusive session titled “Seaweed (Kappaphycus): Sustainable Superfood from the Sea” was delivered by Prof. Dr. Patricia, highlighting seaweed’s potential as a nutrient-rich, low-carbon food source that supports both human health and marine ecosystem balance. The students also participated in a hands-on activity preparing seaweed-based food products, blending creativity with sustainability learning.
This initiative supports UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2 – Zero Hunger, SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 14 – Life Below Water) by inspiring the next generation to explore sustainable nutrition, blue economy innovation, and responsible food production practices.
20
JUN
June 20, 2025
Professor@School with SMK Pekan Telipok
As part of the AquaMARS Explorers and SciMaTech 2025 Programme, a group of 40 Form 2 students and 3 teachers from Pekan Telipok National Secondary School (SMK Pekan Telipok) visited the Borneo Marine Research Institute (IPMB), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) under the STI 100³ (Professor@School) initiative.
Led by Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Ejria Saleh and assisted by Dr. Mohd Fikri Akmal Mohd Khodzori, the visit formed part of the Professor@School teaching syllabus, designed to nurture curiosity, innovation, and scientific literacy among school students through experiential and sustainability-based learning.
During the session, students received an engaging introduction to marine science and ocean ecosystems, guided by UMS academic staff and Marine Science students. They also participated in interactive, hands-on activities that highlighted the relationship between marine biodiversity, climate stability, and sustainable resource management.
The programme aimed to inspire young learners to appreciate the relevance of STEM and marine research in addressing real-world sustainability challenges, such as marine conservation, pollution reduction, and ocean health.
Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 13 – Climate Action, and SDG 14 – Life Below Water), this initiative underscores UMS’s continuous effort to bridge classroom learning with real environmental experiences, cultivating the next generation of responsible, sustainability-minded scientists and innovators.
27
FEB
FEB 27, 2025
Professor@School with SMK Libaran
Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), in collaboration with Bioeconomy Corporation and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), organised the STI 100³ (Professor@School) BioAgri Programme at SMK Libaran to expose students to modern agriculture and sustainable crop production.
Guided by Mr. Frederick Florentius @ Aric, an expert in bioeconomy and agri-technology, students learned about the concept of BioAgri and participated in fertigation system installation, combining theory, hands-on practice, and inquiry-based learning. This activity enhanced their understanding of smart farming, water-efficient systems, and responsible resource management in agriculture.
The programme encourages youth participation in STEM, bioeconomy, and sustainable agri-innovation, nurturing future-ready learners who can contribute to Malaysia’s green growth agenda.
Aligned with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production).
15 OCT
Professor@School with Sekolah Kebangsaan Kebagu
Kota Kinabalu, 15 October 2025 – The Borneo Marine Research Institute (IPMB), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), through its Professor@School Sustainability Series, successfully hosted the programme “DIVE INTO STEM: Marine & Aqua Adventure”, welcoming 50 students and 7 teachers from Kebagu National Primary School (SK Kebagu) for an immersive marine science experience at the UMS Marine Museum and Aquarium. The programme, coordinated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abentin Estim, offered participants a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of marine biodiversity and learn about the importance of ocean ecosystems in sustaining life on Earth. Students observed various species of fish, corals, and marine organisms, while also being introduced to diving equipment and marine research tools used by UMS scientists and students in real-world studies. This initiative served as an engaging platform to bridge the gap between the university and schools, fostering early curiosity in marine science, ocean sustainability, and STEM education. By combining hands-on learning with scientific exploration, the programme encouraged students to appreciate the vital role of oceans in maintaining ecological balance and combating climate change. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 13 – Climate Action, and SDG 14 – Life Below Water), the Professor@School: Marine & Aqua Adventure exemplifies UMS’s mission to inspire the next generation of young environmental stewards who will champion the protection of our marine ecosystems for a sustainable future.
11 OCT
Professor@School with SMK Omar
Sipitang, 11–13 October 2025 – Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), through its Professor@School initiative, successfully organised OUTREACH 2.0: Empowering Future Foresters at Pengiran Omar National Secondary School (SMK Pengiran Omar), Sipitang. The three-day programme was designed to bridge science, sustainability, and community engagement by nurturing students’ awareness of the importance of forests, biodiversity, and environmental conservation. The initiative aimed to bring forestry science and technology closer to young learners, empowering them with the knowledge and values needed to become future environmental stewards. Throughout the programme, participants took part in a series of engaging activities, including knowledge-sharing sessions by UMS academics, interactive workshops, science exhibitions, and hands-on forestry activities led by the Faculty of Tropical Forestry (FPT), UMS. Operating under the theme “Our Forest, Our Priority,” the programme highlighted the role of forests as vital ecosystems supporting biodiversity, climate regulation, and sustainable livelihoods. The collaboration also involved contributions from local communities, reinforcing the importance of collective action in protecting natural heritage. This outreach reflects UMS’s ongoing commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:
- SDG 4 – Quality Education: enhancing science literacy and environmental learning through experiential education.
- SDG 13 – Climate Action: fostering awareness on forests’ role in climate mitigation and resilience.
- SDG 15 – Life on Land: promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable forest management.
21 AUG
Professor@School with SMK Usukan
Professor@School Sustainability Series with SMK Usukan, Kota Belud was successfully conducted at the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Ramsar Site, showcasing UMS’s commitment to environmental education and community-based sustainability learning. The session began with a programme and safety briefing by the Wetland Centre staff, followed by an interpretative walk through the mangrove ecosystem. Participants explored the interconnected roles of mangroves in carbon storage, coastal protection, and biodiversity conservation, while observing the diverse flora and fauna that thrive within the wetland habitat. In the spirit of hands-on sustainability, students and participants also joined in a mangrove seedling planting activity, contributing directly to ecosystem restoration and climate resilience. Beyond conservation, the experience fostered a deeper appreciation for how community action and education can drive local solutions to global environmental challenges, aligning with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
5 AUG
Professor@School with SMK Tandek
The Biotechnology Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) conducted an engaging Professor@School outreach at SMK Tandek, Kota Marudu, to inspire students’ curiosity in science, technology, and sustainable innovation. Led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mailin Misson, the programme introduced students to the fascinating world of microorganisms and biotechnology through an interactive STEM Talk, quizzes, and six hands-on learning stations. Through activities such as microscopy, Gram staining, bacterial culture, and fungal observation, students explored how microorganisms play vital roles in health, food safety, and environmental balance. The initiative strengthened their appreciation of how biotechnology supports sustainable solutions in daily life and the economy. This aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Innovation & Infrastructure), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production), reinforcing UMS’s mission to nurture future-ready, sustainability-minded learners.
29 JUL
Professor@School with SMK Petagas
The Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), in collaboration with Petagas National Secondary School (SMK Petagas), successfully conducted Professor@School Phase 2, an initiative aimed at enhancing science literacy and fostering interest in STEM fields through experiential learning for sustainability. A total of 68 students from Form 3 and Form 4 participated in this impactful engagement. Among the programme highlights were Interactive Lab Activities such as Banana DNA Extraction, Match the Nucleotides, and The Seed Journey, followed by an Inspiring Talk titled Science in Everyday Life delivered by Prof. Dr. Zaleha A. Aziz. The event received strong support from U-Science UMS, faculty members of FST, and dedicated teachers from SMK Petagas. The programme was officiated by Mr. Safri bin Jeffri, Principal of SMK Petagas, together with Mr. Zawawi Datuk Tiyunin, Director of U-Science UMS, as the guest of honour. This initiative created meaningful sustainability impact by promoting direct knowledge transfer in science, increasing student motivation toward STEM and green innovation, and offering early exposure to the university’s academic and research culture. It also nurtured 21st-century skills such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking — essential for building resilient, future-ready learners. Aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure, and SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities), the programme reinforces UMS’s mission to integrate sustainability in education, bridging university–school partnerships for inclusive and transformative learning. Such initiatives demonstrate the effectiveness of community-based education in nurturing a scientifically literate, creative, and sustainability-driven generation, and underscore the importance of expanding this model to more schools across Sabah in the years to come.
29 SEP
Professor@School with Kolej Vokasional Likas
A total of 40 students from Likas Vocational College had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of sustainable construction technology through the Professor@School Programme, jointly organised by U-Science Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the Faculty of Engineering. The session was led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Habib Musa Mohammad and Dr. Nurul Shahadahtul Afizah Azman, experts in civil engineering, together with Mr. Afflizailizam Ali Hassan, Assistant Manager of the UMS Brick Workshop. The facilitators shared their technical expertise and guided students through a hands-on session on sustainable brick fabrication, integrating scientific knowledge with practical applications. Through the experiential learning approach, participants not only learned the theoretical aspects of material composition and construction science but also gained practical exposure by producing concrete bricks using actual moulds and eco-friendly mixtures. This initiative is part of UMS’s broader effort to extend university expertise to schools and colleges through the Professor@School Sustainability Series, supporting the empowerment of technical and vocational education (TVET) and promoting the real-world application of engineering knowledge. The programme effectively inspired students to explore green engineering solutions and sustainable building technologies, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities). By bridging academic knowledge with community practice, Professor@School continues to play a crucial role in cultivating future-ready technical talents who can contribute to Malaysia’s transition toward a more innovative and sustainable construction industry.
25 JUN
Professor@School with SMK Kundasang
The Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition (FSMP), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) welcomed 22 students and 2 teachers for a sustainability-focused Professor@School programme, led by Prof. Dr. Patricia Clementina Matanjun. The visit aimed to enhance awareness of sustainable food systems and the role of science and innovation in promoting healthy and eco-friendly diets. Participants toured the Halal Research and Service Centre (PPPH), nutrition and food instrumentation laboratories, food analysis labs, and the pilot processing plant, gaining real-world exposure to food technology and research for sustainability. An exclusive session titled “Seaweed (Kappaphycus): Sustainable Superfood from the Sea” was delivered by Prof. Dr. Patricia, highlighting seaweed’s potential as a nutrient-rich, low-carbon food source that supports both human health and marine ecosystem balance. The students also participated in a hands-on activity preparing seaweed-based food products, blending creativity with sustainability learning. This initiative supports UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2 – Zero Hunger, SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 14 – Life Below Water) by inspiring the next generation to explore sustainable nutrition, blue economy innovation, and responsible food production practices.
20 JUN
Professor@School with SMK Pekan Telipok
As part of the AquaMARS Explorers and SciMaTech 2025 Programme, a group of 40 Form 2 students and 3 teachers from Pekan Telipok National Secondary School (SMK Pekan Telipok) visited the Borneo Marine Research Institute (IPMB), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) under the STI 100³ (Professor@School) initiative. Led by Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Ejria Saleh and assisted by Dr. Mohd Fikri Akmal Mohd Khodzori, the visit formed part of the Professor@School teaching syllabus, designed to nurture curiosity, innovation, and scientific literacy among school students through experiential and sustainability-based learning. During the session, students received an engaging introduction to marine science and ocean ecosystems, guided by UMS academic staff and Marine Science students. They also participated in interactive, hands-on activities that highlighted the relationship between marine biodiversity, climate stability, and sustainable resource management. The programme aimed to inspire young learners to appreciate the relevance of STEM and marine research in addressing real-world sustainability challenges, such as marine conservation, pollution reduction, and ocean health. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 13 – Climate Action, and SDG 14 – Life Below Water), this initiative underscores UMS’s continuous effort to bridge classroom learning with real environmental experiences, cultivating the next generation of responsible, sustainability-minded scientists and innovators.
27 FEB
Professor@School with SMK Libaran
Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), in collaboration with Bioeconomy Corporation and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), organised the STI 100³ (Professor@School) BioAgri Programme at SMK Libaran to expose students to modern agriculture and sustainable crop production. Guided by Mr. Frederick Florentius @ Aric, an expert in bioeconomy and agri-technology, students learned about the concept of BioAgri and participated in fertigation system installation, combining theory, hands-on practice, and inquiry-based learning. This activity enhanced their understanding of smart farming, water-efficient systems, and responsible resource management in agriculture. The programme encourages youth participation in STEM, bioeconomy, and sustainable agri-innovation, nurturing future-ready learners who can contribute to Malaysia’s green growth agenda. Aligned with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production).