By Dr Norsimaa Mustaffa & Dr Kartini Kamaruzzaman

Service Learning Malaysia – University for Society (SULAM) was launched in 2019 by the Ministry of Higher Education, and broadly defined as a form of experiential education that involves students engaging in activities alongside the community to address needs or issues exist in society.

SULAM concept

The SULAM concept encompasses multiple dimensions, integrating both curricular and co-curricular approaches that focus on service and education in collaboration with the community.

This concept emphasises the importance of balancing learning outcomes and service results, ensuring that both are achieved in partnership with the community.

The activities are significant in engaging students to explore education and careers related to STREAM of which encompassing science, technology, religion/spirituality, engineering, artistry, and mathematics.

Besides, are crucial in raising awareness among parents or guardians including community. It encourages them to support and motivate their children in pursuing these fields.

Revealed Knowledge and Rational Thinking

SULAM and STREAM that integrate with both Naqli (revealed knowledge) and Aqli (rational thinking) in the delivery and implementation of practical STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education to create a more holistic impact.

The implementation of SULAM fosters a spirit of collaboration and complementarity. It builds critical and creative thinking skills while developing communication and leadership abilities which are among essential competencies for individuals navigating the challenges of the 4.0 industrial revolution.

SULAM implementation through courses in universities that integrate Naqli and Aqli serve as a platform to provide students with theoretical understanding and concepts, while also honing their skills to apply classroom learning in real-world situations embedded with good values.

This approach is crucial for motivating the community to take actions that benefit society.

High Impact Educational Practices

SULAM has the potential to become an element of High Impact Educational Practices (HIEPs), where students are exposed to the ‘CARE framework’ related to Community Resilience Experiential Learning.

This core component of the curriculum promotes student learning through addressing societal issues and needs, ultimately fostering positive social change based on community service and learning.

The integration of core values such as al-Qawiyy (Strength) and al-Amin (Trustworthiness) into the SULAM project fosters a collaborative environment among students, educators, and the target community.

This approach enhances students' ability to identify issues and implement solutions related to the community in addressing local issues by applying the knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom.

Tadabbur Al-Quran

These initiatives emphasise themes such as Tadabbur al-Quran (contemplation of its meaning and purposes instead of just recitation) and the Unity of Knowledge (reviving the greatness of Islamic civilisation).

Besides, Conflict Management and Islamic Brotherhood (addressing divisions within the Muslim community), and Sincerity and High Values (tackling the challenges of secularisation and the fragmentation of knowledge).

In a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing educational experiences while fostering community development, SULAM is redefining the role of higher education in the nation.

The programme uniquely integrates academic learning with community service, providing students with opportunities to engage with local issues while developing critical skills.

Symbiotic Relationship

Established to align with Malaysia’s vision for a more inclusive society, SULAM focuses on creating a symbiotic relationship between universities and the communities.

By encouraging students to participate in hands-on projects, the initiative emphasises experiential learning which is an approach that deepens understanding and retention of academic concepts while addressing real-world challenges.

Students from various disciplines are immersed in projects ranging from environmental conservation to varieties of awareness campaigns.

For instance, recent collaborations from Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) students and lecturers alongside with primary and secondary school students including representative from the industries in conducting digital campaign and da’wah through the implementation of new media platform on sustainable practices, educating community through awareness campaign programs based on real issues in the community.

They were provided with knowledge and skills to address real issues emerging from the grassroot community and able to independently develop digital campaign integrated with the elements of da’wah distributed on digital platforms. This project not only benefit the communities but also enrich students' educational journeys, enhancing their problem-solving skills and social responsibility.

The impact of SULAM extends beyond academic enhancement where it cultivates a sense of civic duty among participants. Students provided various feedback such as feeling a greater connection to the communities (vice-versa) and a heightened awareness of social issues including the sense of responsibility to contribute positively to the community.

Many students and community involved in the SULAM project express that their experiences have inspired them in the sense of responsibilities and awareness in public service and community development, reinforcing the notion that education should not only be about personal advancement but also about contributing to the greater good.

Encourages Collaboration

SULAM's framework encourages collaboration among universities, government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and industries, fostering a network of institutions that share best practices and resources.

This collaborative spirit amplifies the program’s reach, allowing for a more substantial impact on the communities involved.

As Malaysia continues to navigate social and economic challenges, initiatives like SULAM serve as a hope, demonstrating that education can be a powerful catalyst for change. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, SULAM is not only enhancing the educational landscape but also empowering communities to thrive.

In a world increasingly focused on sustainable development and social equity, programs like SULAM highlight the essential role of education in building a more just and equitable society.

As students step out of the classroom and into the community, they are not just learning but an active participant in the betterment of their world.

The implementation of SULAM also enhances students' understanding of academic learning while fostering bonds with the community.

Notably, the community is actively involved in educational activities, creating an environment that promotes both personal and professional development and cultivates harmony within society.

Adopting critical and innovative learning approaches like the SULAM project provides opportunities for students to realise and develop their potential and overall quality.

The support from stakeholders including ministry, schools, and NGOs, enables university students, and community beneficiaries to successfully carry out this initiative.

There is a great hope that all parties will continue to support SULAM and STREAM efforts, ensuring that transformative and innovative teaching and learning initiatives at the higher education level continue to thrive and excel for the next generations.

-- BERNAMA

Dr Norsimaa Mustaffa is a lecturer, New Media Communications Programme, Faculty of Leadership and Managemen and Dr Kartini Kamaruzzaman is the Head of Programme, New Media Communications Programme, Faculty of Leadership and Management, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia.