ALOR SETAR, 29 July 2025 – In a vibrant celebration of language, leadership, and community, the Language Centre of Albukhary International University (AIU) proudly hosted “English Alive!”, a dynamic, one-day English enhancement programme tailored for 79 Form 5 students from Maktab Mahmud Pokok Sena. Held on the scenic AIU campus in Alor Setar, this immersive event was strategically designed to strengthen spoken English skills ahead of the upcoming SPM examinations.
More than just a workshop, English Alive! was a memorable experience filled with interactive learning, cross-cultural engagement, and youth empowerment. The programme reflected AIU’s vision of combining academic excellence with community service and global citizenship.
Supporting English Mastery Through Real-World Engagement
The primary goal of English Alive! was to foster real-world English communication skills through practical, student-centred activities. Instead of traditional classroom instruction, the programme focused on:
- Confidence building in spoken English,
- Expressive and creative language use,
- Collaborative learning with university mentors,
- Peer-to-peer engagement and knowledge sharing.
This innovative approach helped reduce the fear often associated with speaking English and encouraged participants to explore the language in a fun, meaningful, and pressure-free environment.
Student Leadership at Its Best
What truly set this programme apart was the leadership and passion demonstrated by 33 student facilitators from AIU’s Language Centre (LC). These university students served as mentors, group leaders, and language coaches throughout the day.
Their role extended beyond simple instruction—they:
- Facilitated group discussions and speaking activities,
- Provided one-on-one support to boost learner confidence,
- Shared personal learning experiences and study tips,
- Embodied the values of service learning and peer mentorship.
By leading the event, AIU students gained valuable leadership and communication skills, further reinforcing their own journey as future educators, community leaders, and global citizens.
English Gameporium: Language Learning Meets Fun
The highlight of English Alive! was undoubtedly the English Gameporium — a festive and engaging carnival-style learning experience. Featuring 15 interactive and themed game stations, this creative segment transformed English learning into a day of fun, exploration, and teamwork.
Activities included:
- Word puzzles and vocabulary challenges,
- Role-playing scenarios and storytelling games,
- Pronunciation races and grammar relays.
Each station was designed to spark creativity, enhance language fluency, and encourage public speaking—all while ensuring students were having fun and learning without pressure.
A Platform for Growth: For Participants and Mentors Alike
The programme also featured a sharing session led by students from the Centre for Foundation and General Studies (CFGS), where they offered advice, motivation, and strategies for mastering English and preparing for SPM. This session provided younger students with realistic role models, encouraging them to take charge of their learning journey.
Overall, English Alive! served a dual purpose:
- For the Form 5 participants: It provided practical, impactful English support ahead of major exams.
- For AIU student facilitators: It offered a transformative leadership opportunity, allowing them to grow in empathy, public speaking, and peer teaching.
A Lasting Impact on the Community
By combining education, service, and student empowerment, English Alive! exemplified the Language Centre’s mission of applying its academic expertise in ways that benefit both the university and the wider community.
This programme also highlights AIU’s broader commitment to:
- Supporting national education goals,
- Fostering outreach with local schools,
- Creating platforms for mentorship and social impact,
- Promoting multilingualism and communication excellence.
📌 About Albukhary International University (AIU)
Albukhary International University is a non-profit, private institution based in Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia. Known for its inclusive and diverse educational model, AIU emphasizes academic excellence, service learning, and cross-cultural development. The university is committed to shaping students into globally-minded, ethically driven leaders through immersive education and meaningful community engagement.
📍 Address: Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, 05200 Alor Setar, Kedah Darul Aman, MALAYSIA
📧 Email: corpcomm@aiu.edu.my
🌐 Website: www.aiu.edu.my
