Almost 1,000 Schools Selected For MADANI School Programme

PUTRAJAYA, June 20 (Bernama) -- Nearly 1,000 schools have been selected for the MADANI Adopted School Programme, implemented in collaboration with around 117 private companies, aimed at addressing the educational gap across the country.

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said that the MADANI Adopted School initiative reflects the government's belief that quality education is a shared responsibility.

"By combining the expertise of the government and private sectors, this programme aims to ensure that no student is left behind.

"Initially, we only targeted 500 schools, but we see the commitment and feel it would be unfair if we do not invite the bodies (companies) that have long focused on our schools," she said during her speech at the launch of the MADANI Adopted Schools by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Fadhlina said that the organisations adopting the foster schools have committed to long-term cooperation focusing on five main areas, namely improving school infrastructure and facilities; enhancing academic programmes and student guidance; strengthening teacher training and development; providing financial assistance and scholarships; and developing students' character and skills.

"Therefore, the focus is not only on one segment but more broadly, while the overall development of the school not only includes infrastructure development but also human development is given attention," she said.

Meanwhile, according to a Ministry of Education (MOE) statement, through the MADANI Adopted School Programme, organisations with extensive resources are matched with schools that need support.

The support received includes contributions from 32 private companies, 29 government-linked companies (GLCs) and government-linked investment companies (GLICs), 29 government agencies, and 27 companies owned by the Minister of Finance (Incorporated).

The statement said that each organisation selects a foster school based on its capabilities and the specific needs of the school.

"This targeted approach aims to create sustainable partnerships that go beyond financial contributions, encompassing skill transfers, mentoring programmes and infrastructure development," said the MOE.

The programme that started in April is jointly coordinated by the MOE and the Ministry of Finance, and the first phase is expected to be completed by Dec 31, with plans for a programme extension subject to the results of the first phase.

The MADANI Adopted School initiative was sparked by Anwar's call for the Malaysian corporate sector to play a larger role in national development, particularly in the field of education, which still sees a significant gap between urban and rural schools.

-- BERNAMA