Unpacking Insights on PISA Assessment by Prof. Dr. Moses Samuel Sparked Discussion among Policymakers & Educators in Malaysia

On January 11, 2024, Prof. Dr. Moses Stephens Gunams Samuel, a Senior Research Fellow from Taylor's School of Education, appeared as a guest on the Astro Awani programme "Consider This". This flagship talk show addresses contemporary policy issues, and the episode on January 11 focused on Malaysia's performance in the 2022 PISA assessments.

PISA, which stands for "The Programme for International Student Assessment" is a worldwide study by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in member and non-member nations intended to evaluate educational systems and measures 15-year-old school pupils' scholastic performance on their reading, mathematics, and science knowledge and skills to meet real-life challenges. The tests explore how well students can solve complex problems, think critically and communicate effectively.

During the talk show, Prof. Dr. Moses discussed the potential systemic issues in Malaysian education that may have contributed to the dip in scores in 2022, despite the COVID-19 school closures. He also emphasized the implications for teacher education and literacy interventions throughout the school system. The talk show has garnered significant attention and has been cited by policymakers and educators in Malaysia.

For more information about the interview, you can view the following link:

https://youtu.be/1jM-mep39Q8?si=5fK4hIPPxrIBfepj#

Gain Insights from Dr. Salini Devi Rajendran on Strengthening Global Food Security Through Collective Action

In the two recent articles, Dr. Salini Devi Rajendran, a Senior Lecturer from Taylor’s School of Food Studies and Gastronomy, underscored the imperative need for collective action to improve global food security. Her articles, featured in The Star and The Sun newspapers, shed light on the critical importance of uniting diverse stakeholders to tackle the multifaceted challenges surrounding food security.

Dr. Salini's article in The Star newspaper, titled "Collective Action Needed to Boost Food Security," emphasized the necessity of collaborative strategies in strengthening the global food supply. She highlighted the significance of bringing together policymakers, local communities, and other stakeholders to address the complex issues that threaten food security worldwide. By fostering awareness and engagement, her piece served as a compelling call to action, urging readers to recognize and confront the challenges at hand.

In a parallel discourse, The Sun newspaper covered Dr. Salini's article titled "Enhancing Commitment to Food Security," where she critically examined strategies that aimed at ensuring stable food security. Through her insightful analysis, Dr. Salini reinforced the collective responsibility shared by individuals and institutions in addressing the root causes of food insecurity. By advocating for heightened commitment and collaboration, she emphasized the urgency of prioritizing food security on the global agenda.

Dr. Salini's contributions to both articles underscored the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and cross-sectoral partnerships in addressing food security challenges. Her expertise in the field of gastronomy brings a unique perspective to the discourse, emphasizing the interconnectedness between food systems, sustainability, and community resilience.

As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, Dr. Salini's articles served as poignant reminders of the pressing need for concerted efforts to safeguard food security for present and future generations. By heeding her call to action and embracing collaborative strategies, we can collectively strive towards a more equitable and sustainable food future.

To read Dr. Salini Devi Rajendran's full articles, please visit:-

1. The Star - "Collective Action Needed to Boost Food Security"

2. The Sun - "Enhancing Commitment to Food Security"
   

Unraveling the Michelin Guide: Journey To The Heart of The Fascinating World of Food Studies

The recent Speaker Series 2024 organized by the School of Food Studies and Gastronomy (SFSG), featuring esteemed Michelin Expert, Associate Professor Dr. Frédéric Zancanaro from University of Toulouse-Jean Jaurès, France, to share his insights on the topic of "Journey to the Heart of the Michelin Guide: An Opening onto Food Studies".

This event garnered significant attention, attracting a diverse audience of over 50 participants, including faculty members, graduating students, alumni, and specially invited external guests. Together, they delved into the intricate intersection of Michelin guide and the realm of food studies.

Dr. Frédéric Zancanaro is an Associate Professor in Sociology at the University of Toulouse-Jean Jaurès (France), and a member of Centre for Research on Work, Organization, Power (CERTOP). He teaches at Institute Supérieur of Tourism, Hotels and Food (ISTHIA) and is the Deputy Director of the institute. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of Taylor's Toulouse University Center (TTUC) and International Association of French-speaking Sociologists (AISLF).

Dr. Frederic delivered a captivating presentation, offering profound insights into the significance of the Michelin guide and its enduring impact on the gastronomic landscape. Attendees were treated to a deep dive into the guide's evolution over time and its profound influence on culinary excellence globally. The session provided attendees with a wealth of knowledge and sparked meaningful discussions about the role of Michelin in shaping culinary standards and practices.

Overall, the Speaker Series was a resounding success, signaling the School's commitment to academic excellence. It set a promising tone for future events, promising further exploration of the intricate relationship between food studies and the wider gastronomic world.