Teacher Shifa from SK Telok Kechai, Alor Setar, Kedah, has been dedicated to enhancing her school’s Interactive Reading Corner (IRC) since 2022. By strategically integrating the HIP FINCO Reads budget with her Self-Access Learning Room Makeover initiative, she secured additional funding for new books, creating a model that inspired other schools like SK Alor Mengkudu to develop their own IRCs using tailored suggestions.

Her pupils have shown remarkable growth, gaining confidence in using English outside the classroom and actively participating in showcase programmes. The first showcase, based on textbook stories and enriched with reading activities, saw enthusiastic participation from Years 4 to 6. Building on this success, Teacher Shifa organized a state-level showcase involving three districts, 50 presenters, and 11 facilitators. This initiative expanded pupils’ knowledge and encouraged collaboration among educators.

Teacher Shifa’s shared reading sessions, particularly for remedial pupils, have been transformative. The weekly sessions not only improved reading skills but also inspired students to volunteer as leaders, conducting sessions for peers. Her future plans include extending these impactful practices to reach more students.
Teacher Shifa attributes her success to the unwavering support of her colleagues, school leadership, and FINCO. As she puts it, “Teachers might be ordinary to some, but we are always somebody important in our pupils’ lives. I hope this journey continues to flourish.”