Johor Bahru, 13 Nov – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) continues its commitment to community engagement and corporate social responsibility (CSR) with the successful organization of the Robochallenge with IoT Program at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Mutiara Rini, Johor Bahru. Jointly spearheaded by the Research Alliance Office and the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation), the program aims to foster innovation and technological awareness among students while strengthening ties with the local community.

This initiative reflects UTM’s mission of “Kerana Tuhan untuk Manusia” (In the Name of God for Mankind), emphasizing the university’s role in empowering society with valuable skills in the digital age. The program aligns with UTM’s efforts to build a strong reputation and positive image through active community involvement.

Planning for the program began with a virtual meeting on 24 March 2024 between UTM representatives and the school administration. SMK Mutiara Rini was identified as an ideal venue to enhance students’ awareness and skills in IoT at an early stage. An initial site survey was conducted on 3 April 2024 to identify suitable spaces for the program’s activities.

The program was designed as a platform for students to develop IoT-based innovations under the guidance of UTM volunteers. Participants received training in IoT technologies before embarking on their projects. The event culminated in a knowledge-sharing session and innovation competition, where a panel of judges from UTM evaluated the students’ creations.

Through this initiative, UTM hopes to inspire a new generation of innovators capable of leveraging IoT technologies to address real-world challenges. The program is not only a testament to UTM’s dedication to education and innovation but also a stepping stone toward fostering long-term community partnerships.

This collaboration highlights the university’s unwavering commitment to societal well-being, bridging the gap between academia and the community. By empowering students with advanced technological skills, UTM aims to position Malaysia as a leader in innovation and development in the digital age.