TAWAU: Sabah’s Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk James Ratib will seek state and federal funding to upgrade infrastructure and learning facilities at the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) Tawau Campus, including repairs to its ageing perimeter fence and the provision of smart boards.
He said funding would be requested from the Sabah State Government through the State Cabinet as well as the Ministry of Education Malaysia to improve campus safety and create a more conducive environment for trainees and staff.
“The ministry also identified the need to equip IPG Tawau with smart boards to support modern teaching and training methods for future educators.
“The move is in line with the state government’s push to strengthen digitalisation in education and ensure trainee teachers are exposed to current classroom technologies,” he said.
Internet and telecommunications coverage issues around the campus were also raised, with the ministry saying the matter would be brought to the attention of relevant authorities, including the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), to address connectivity gaps affecting online learning.
Campus management additionally requested a new bus to replace an ageing vehicle currently in service, citing the need to improve mobility and comfort for trainees and staff.
The funding requests and facility needs were discussed during the minister’s working visit to IPG Tawau, where the ministry reviewed safety, infrastructure and training requirements at the campus.
“The Ministry remains committed to working with relevant stakeholders to strengthen teacher training facilities and support quality education development in the state,” he said.
