FROM STPM TO HIGHER EDUCATION: SBS INSPIRES STUDENTS AT KOLEJ TINGKATAN ENAM HAJI ZAINUL ABIDIN
PENANG, 9 July 2026 – The School of Biological Sciences (SBS), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), recently conducted an academic outreach visit to Kolej Tingkatan Enam Haji Zainul Abidin, Penang, reinforcing its commitment to engaging with pre-university students and introducing them to higher education opportunities in the biological sciences.
The SBS delegation was led by Associate Professor Dr. Amir Hamzah Ahmad Ghazali, Dean of the School of Biological Sciences, accompanied by Associate Professor Dr. Nik Ahmad Irwan Izzauddin Nik Him, Deputy Dean (Academic, Career and International), and Associate Professor Dr. Ahmad Ramli Mohd Yahya, Deputy Dean (Research, Innovation and Industry-Community Engagement).
The programme commenced with a welcoming session, followed by an overview of Universiti Sains Malaysia and the School of Biological Sciences. During the session, students were introduced to the university admission process, academic pathways after completing STPM, and the diverse educational opportunities available through SBS.
To provide students with a deeper understanding of the programmes offered, the session continued with presentations by SBS Programme Chairpersons and programme representatives. The presentations were delivered by Associate Professor Dr. Hasber Salim, Programme Chairperson for Agrobiology; Dr. Hazzeman Haris, Programme Chairperson for Aquatic Biology and Environmental Biology; and Dr. Kamarul Zaman Zarkasi, Programme Chairperson for Biotechnology and Microbiology. They were joined by Dr. Nurul 'Ain Elias, representing the Animal and Plant Biology/Animal and Plant Biodiversity programme, and Associate Professor Dr. Suhaila Ab. Hamid, representing the Entomology and Parasitology programme.
Each presenter shared valuable insights into their respective programmes, covering the curriculum, areas of specialisation, learning facilities, industrial training opportunities, research experiences, and career prospects. The sharing session also highlighted how each programme equips students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to meet the growing demands of the biological sciences sector.
Students actively participated in the interactive question-and-answer session, seeking further information on programme selection, admission requirements, student life at USM, and potential career pathways upon graduation. The lively discussion reflected the students' strong interest in pursuing higher education and exploring future opportunities within the biological sciences.
The SBS delegation was warmly welcomed by the management of Kolej Tingkatan Enam Haji Zainul Abidin, led by Mr. Rahamatullah Sulaiman, Principal of the college. Also in attendance were Ms. Siti Zubaidah Sarodin, Senior Assistant (Administration); Mr. Thanabal Ramakrishnan, Head of the Chemistry Unit; Ms. Naifaifzai Mohd Hashim, Head of the Physics Unit; Mr. Abdul Salam Abdul Rahim, Head of the Mathematics T Unit; Ms. Chai Cui Wen, Chemistry teacher; and counsellors Mr. Nor Hisyam Mohd Nawi and Ms. Syaqirin Sobri.
The outreach programme reflects SBS USM's continuous commitment to supporting students as they transition from STPM to higher education by providing early exposure to academic opportunities and career pathways in the biological sciences. Through initiatives such as this, SBS hopes to inspire more students to pursue their academic aspirations and contribute to the advancement of science, research and innovation in the future.
Prepared by: Nur Ain Nabila Binti Mohamad Zaihan
Date: 14 July 2026