Antarabudaya Malaysia recently launched the first AFS Global STEM programmes for 2023 with 10 full scholarships for young Malaysians.
The 16 week or four-month program combines digital and in-person learning where participants from more than 18 countries worldwide will enrich their knowledge through the development of global competencies in problem solving, analytical skills, intercultural understanding, sustainability and social innovation.
The annual STEM scholarship program for 100 participants, funded by global energy company BP, starts with a 12-week virtual e-learning curriculum from their home country culminating with student-led social impact projects and presentations on potential solutions to real world challenges with emphasis on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The topic of study includes climate change and the energy transition.
On successful completion of the virtual curriculum co-developed between AFS International and the University of Pennsylvania, the STEM scholars will travel on a 4-week immersive experience to one of the six participating AFS destinations: Brazil, China, Egypt, Europe, India or the USA.
They will also participate in community service and have the opportunity to visit innovative, sustainability-focused operations to see first-hand how companies and organisations at the destination country use STEM skills to address industry and societal challenges around sustainability issues.
Board Trustee for AFS International and Advisor to Antarabudaya Malaysia, Datin Yasmin Merican, said that the opportunity would be an enriching intercultural learning experience for the 10 students selected.
A total of 317 young Malaysians from all over the country with interest in STEM skills had applied for the scholarships.
