USM Free Educational Programmes on Ecosystems and Biodiversity Awareness

Universiti Sains Malaysia continues to advance environmental education through accessible and inclusive initiatives that promote awareness of ecosystems and biodiversity among local communities. In 2024, the university organised several free educational programmes designed to foster appreciation of wild flora and fauna and to cultivate ecological awareness through hands-on learning.

On 5 July 2024, the Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS) conducted an educational field module titled “Exploring Biodiversity and the Civilisation Excavation of Sungai Batu”, led by Dr. Radieah Mohd Nor. The programme was specially designed for B40 school students from SRITI Al-Qawwam, Nibong Tebal, providing them with direct exposure to the natural environment. Participants visited EcoHub USM and the USM Archaeology Gallery, where they explored the diversity of flora and fauna while learning about the connection between ecosystems, cultural heritage, and sustainability. This free learning experience inspired students to pursue studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) while nurturing their understanding of Malaysia’s biodiversity and natural heritage.

Complementing this effort, USM also implemented the USM Campus Nature Challenge, a citizen science initiative co-organised by the USM Library, School of Biological Sciences (SBS), and CGSS. The project, published in Paper Asia (May 2024), involved a six-week bioblitz event that allowed students, staff, and community members to explore and document the rich ecosystems of USM’s main campus using the open-access platform iNaturalist. Participants identified over 288 species, including plants, insects, fungi, and birds, while learning about ecosystem interdependence and conservation practices.

Both programmes demonstrate USM’s commitment to providing free access to educational opportunities that enhance ecological knowledge and public engagement. By connecting participants directly with nature, USM plays a key role in promoting environmental literacy and inspiring stewardship of Malaysia’s wild flora and fauna.