Bridging the Digital Divide: the inspiring work of Siti Noraiza
Siti Noraiza binti Ab Razak, a 38-year-old Information Technology lecturer from Pagoh, Malaysia, working at the Universiti Tun Hussein Onn (UTHM), has made a remarkable impact through her involvement with us at the ST Foundation. This year, she, along with her colleague Shelena and their dedicated team, embraced the role of trainers and volunteers, driven by a shared desire to contribute meaningfully to society.
Recognizing the technological knowledge gap faced by many school children, Siti was drawn to our mission. She saw it as a unique opportunity not only to give back but also to inspire and empower young learners who often lack access to essential digital skills. For Siti, participating in this program was also a welcome break from her daily academic responsibilities, allowing her to channel her expertise into a cause she deeply values.
In her sessions, Siti encountered firsthand the challenges faced by students in schools where computer learning is limited. Many children struggled with basic skills such as using a mouse or distinguishing between right-click and left-click. However, when tablets were introduced, the transformation was remarkable—students quickly became adept, demonstrating that with the right tools and encouragement, learning barriers can be overcome. Siti also witnessed the joy and determination of students as they practiced typing letters, despite having limited access to computers or laptops at home. Their perseverance and enthusiasm inspired her to continue nurturing their digital literacy.
One of the most exciting parts of her involvement was teaching STM32 Coding. The students, already somewhat familiar with coding through their school syllabus, eagerly engaged in the hands-on experience of creating robots. Their creativity and excitement brought life to the sessions, showcasing the potential that technology education holds for young minds.
Siti firmly believes in the enduring relevance of the Digital Unify Program and remains committed to being an active trainer and advocate. She encourages others to join our mission, confident that together they can bridge the digital divide and empower future generations to thrive in an increasingly technological world.