Sedidik’s digital literacy programme benefits over 700 preschoolers

MIRI (Nov 18): The ‘Kids Bits & Bytes’ digital literacy programme has been successfully implemented across 64 Sedidik Sarawak centres, said Datuk Rosey Yunus.

The Deputy Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development said the programme implemented at 62 kindergartens and two nurseries has to date benefitted 713 children.

“It introduces digital literacy tailored to the developmental stages of our children, giving them a head start in understanding technology and essential digital skills for the future,” she said.

She said this in her speech at the graduation ceremony for 120 children from nine Sedidik centres in Miri Zone on Saturday.

According to Rosey, the pilot project started last year with an initial distribution of 72 units of tablets, followed by an additional 355 units this year.

The Bekenu assemblywoman, who is also a member of Sedidik’s board of directors, further highlighted the state government’s goal of enrolling every child in preschool by 2030.

“Early education is a vital foundation for quality human capital. By embracing digital literacy, we are not only preparing our children for school, but also to prepare them for this rapidly advancing world,” she added.

Rosey said Sedidik’s inclusive education has registered 193 children with special needs, aligning with the government’s policy in ensuring that no child is left behind.

“Inclusive education is important in building a generation that is empathetic and respectful. At Sedidik, we welcome all children regardless of physical and cognitive abilities, or their socioeconomic background,” she said.

She also touched on the institution’s holistic education that teaches leadership skills and responsibilities, and builds character and social skills.

“In the ‘Young Leader Programme’, the children are taught the basics of leadership and responsibility, where they get the opportunity to be class leaders for a week, taking turns.

“The Young Saver programme, on the other hand, is designed to teach children the importance of saving from a young age where they learn basic financial management through fun methods, such as saving money in a piggy bank,” she said.

On Learning through Play, she said it enhances children’s learning quality and strengthens their character and social skills.

Rosey also informed that Sedidik has allocated RM1.9 million for the ‘Food for Kids Programme’ this year, meant to ensure the children receive balanced nutrition for optimal physical and mental development.

Among those present at the event were Telang Usan assemblyman Datuk Dennis Ngau and Sedidik general manager Ayub Dahari.