i-CATS Miri’s mural project beautifies preschool

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Students discuss their tasks before starting on the mural.

MIRI: Nine final-year students of International College of Advanced Technology (i-CATS) Miri painted murals at Taska Permata Kemas Desa Permai here, as part of their community service programmes.

The BTEC Higher National Diploma in Electrical / Electronic Engineering students gathered recently to beautify the nursery in Desa Permai and also took time to interact with the children there.

According to i-CATS lecturer Noraini Sahaini, the mural project served to help and guide the students on ways to contribute positively to the community.

Students smile for the camera as they paint a section of the nursery wall.

“This activity enhances the spirit of cooperation among students, as well as foster closer relationships between them, their lecturers and organisations outside of college.

“This project can also give students exposure on ways to manage programmes, no matter big or small – to enhance their knowledge,” she said.

Noraini also believed the mural project should not be their only community service. Through exposure and continuity of other programmes, they would be encouraged to do more even after graduating.

She said prior to implementing this mural project, the students shared various ideas and thoughts for activities with her.

“They suggested rubbish collection, clean-up at the crocodile farm, visiting old folk and children’s homes, and also orphanages. However, mural-painting came about spontaneously and was agreed upon as it was something that they had never done before.

“We were happy that the teacher allowed us to paint murals at the nursery,” said Noraini.

The project funding, she said came from proceeds of the group’s charity sale.

“The charity sale was the students’ first one-day project, with various food items were sold. They were able to earn RM434.

“The proceeds from the charity sale were fully utilised for the mural project, which was their second project,” she said.

The volunteers gather for a group photo at Taska Permata Kemas Desa Permai.