Young Talents Empower the Next Generation: Maxis Volunteers Bring GenAI to Schools
In classrooms buzzing with curiosity, a group of passionate Maxis volunteers made waves by bringing the world of Generative AI (GenAI) to Malaysian secondary schools as part of the Misi Jelajah Digital (MJD) STEM competition 2024. With an unwavering belief in the power of education, these young professionals are demystifying advanced technology, igniting imaginations, and inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
For Anantha Krishnan Raman Fesabas, fondly known as AK, a Maxis software developer, this initiative is deeply personal. Reflecting on the sacrifices his teachers made to nurture his potential, AK shared:
"I always believe in giving back to the community and education is the best way I find to do that. Growing up, I was fortunate to have dedicated teachers who believed in me. They selflessly provided free tuition and extra classes, sacrificing their time and energy to nurture my potential. Their generosity ignited a spark within me, inspiring me to give back to the community in the same way.”
For Gerald Lee Ming Han, a software engineer, his motivation to give back was shaped by his own experiences:
"My senior opened my eyes to how exciting it is to enable others. When this opportunity came along, I knew I wanted to provide the same inspiration to students, showing them how GenAI can empower their learning journeys."
Impact on Students
The workshops were designed to inspire creativity through hands-on learning. Gerald recalled a standout moment:
"One student had this ‘aha’ realization about how GenAI could speed up their learning process. Seeing that spark of understanding was incredibly fulfilling."
AK emphasized the practical skills imparted:
"We equipped students with effective prompting techniques to harness GenAI's power. Understanding when to use AI and when to trust their own intuition is a vital skill for the future."
For many students and teachers, this was their first time using GenAI tools, and the hands-on experience was truly exciting for them. The conversations about how eKelas is transforming their learning journeys were as impactful for the volunteers as the workshops were for the students.
Reflections on GenAI and the Future
The volunteers believe early exposure to technology is vital for empowering the next generation. "GenAI lays the foundation for pushing boundaries in the industry," Gerald explained.
AK added: "Technology isn’t just about innovation; it’s about responsibility. By understanding both the potential and the ethical implications of AI, young people can become informed digital citizens, contributing to a more just and equitable society."
Maxis: Connecting Communities and Building Futures
Through initiatives like this, Maxis is making a tangible impact, bridging the digital divide and fostering a culture of innovation. Gerald summed it up: "Maxis empowers youth in a way that aligns with my personal values—enabling and learning from others for a better future."
AK echoed this sentiment: "Being part of a company that prioritizes social responsibility is incredibly fulfilling. By connecting our expertise with youth education, we’re not just building leaders of tomorrow; we’re inspiring leaders of today."
In schools across Malaysia, the seeds of innovation are being sown, one workshop at a time. Through knowledge sharing, and a shared belief in the power of education, Maxis volunteers are cultivating a generation ready to embrace the future. Their efforts demonstrate that when passionate individuals empower others, the ripple effects can transform communities and unlock boundless potential.
