Sagah: In pursuit of AI, pay attention to slow-learning students

KUCHING: Learning loss among students should be given priority consideration before introducing artificial intelligence (AI) into the primary school curriculum, said Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah.

Commenting on his federal counterpart Fadhlina Sidek’s parliamentary written reply on Tuesday that primary school pupils will be taught the basics of AI in schools starting 2027, Sagah felt that attention to students in the learning loss group should be considered first.

“They (learning loss group students) have not achieved certain standards in reading, writing and maths.

“Of course, if there were funds available, we could go more to implement AI, but we must not forget that we must get those who have yet to be able to read and write or catch up with the rest of their classmates, and the number is quite alarming,” he told reporters after the launch of the ‘Synthesis Sarawak’ magazine here yesterday evening.

In her written reply, Fadhlina also said that in a few years’ time, the school curriculum would include ‘digital savvy’ as one of the seven competencies that must be mastered by students.

Meanwhile, touching on the inaugural issue of Synthesis Sarawak, Sagah said the publication of the magazine, crafted by his ministry, is testament to the unwavering commitment to empowering the Sarawak community, especially the youth.

“The inaugural issue of Synthesis magazine offers a compelling glimpse into the extraordinary scientific and technological progress happening right here in Sarawak.

“These breakthroughs are made possible through collaborative partnerships between our government, our GLCs, and our esteemed academic institutions. This spirit of unity is the catalyst for ongoing innovation.

“Synthesis Sarawak magazine serves as a beacon of inspiration, urging the next generation to fearlessly embrace careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). These fields will secure their future and spearhead the growth of our beloved Sarawak,” he said.

The Synthesis Sarawak magazine features articles on groundbreaking research conducted in the state, written in a style understandable by nonspecialists.

The magazine, which will be distributed to schools, universities and public libraries across Sarawak, covers diverse fields like biotechnology, clean energy, and advanced materials.