On 25 March 2025, 28 Diploma in Early Childhood Education (DECE) students from SEGi embarked on a meaningful study tour to Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang. Organised by Bhawani Letchemanan, the tour spanned three major locations: Perpustakaan Hamzah Sendut 1 (PHS 1), Muzium & Galeri Tuanku Fauziah (MGTF), and the Archaeological Museum. Designed to deepen understanding through experiential learning, the tour proved to be a valuable extension of the classroom.
The visit to PHS 1 introduced students to a wide array of academic resources and research tools, including access to digital archives and databases. Library staff provided a walkthrough of modern research methodologies and techniques, equipping students with essential skills to navigate scholarly information—an increasingly vital competency in the digital age.
Following this, students explored the MGTF, where cultural artefacts, traditional artworks, and curated exhibitions illuminated Malaysia’s rich heritage. Discussions around preservation and the educational role of museums encouraged students to think critically about the intersection of culture, history, and early childhood education. The experience helped bridge academic content with real-world applications of learning.
The final stop, the Archaeological Museum, sparked student curiosity about early civilisations and historical continuity. Exhibits featuring prehistoric relics and excavation processes offered insight into how the past shapes present understanding—especially significant for students studying childhood development through historical lenses. The tour highlighted how heritage learning can cultivate empathy, observation, and analytical thinking in young educators.
Globally, integrating cultural literacy with quality education is increasingly seen as essential. UNESCO states that access to cultural institutions enhances educational outcomes and fosters inclusivity. Moreover, experiential learning helps strengthen 21st-century skills such as inquiry-based research, which is now a top requirement in modern education systems.
The tour also strengthened academic partnerships between SEGi College Penang and established institutions like USM, reflecting the importance of inter-institutional collaboration in building sustainable education ecosystems. Students left the tour more informed, inspired, and ready to apply their enriched perspectives in their academic journey and future teaching careers.
This event is organised in support of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):
Quality Education (SDG 4)
Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11)
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9)
