Projek BacaBaca proudly announced its latest achievement by winning the prestigious 2024 ACEEU "SDG Initiative of the Year" Award. The Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities (ACEEU), a globally recognized body that acknowledges excellence in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and societal impact in higher education, presented this award. The "SDG Initiative of the Year" Award specifically honors projects that make significant contributions to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making this recognition a powerful endorsement of Projek BacaBaca's mission to help children aged 6-9 achieve grade-level reading proficiency.
Launched in 2011 and led by Hema Letchamanan, Senior Lecturer at the School of Education, Projek BacaBaca has gained international recognition for its innovative approach to improving literacy among young learners. With a mission to transform the literacy landscape in the region, the initiative focuses on providing personalized reading sessions to children from low-income families, ensuring they reach grade-level proficiency in both Bahasa Melayu and English.
The programme's unique structure engages a diverse group of volunteers, ranging from secondary students to retirees and professionals who serve as reading coaches. This inclusive community of volunteers has positively impacted over 435 students, significantly enhancing their reading abilities and fostering a love for learning.
The ACEEU award is the latest in a series of accolades for Projek BacaBaca, which has previously earned national and international recognition. Notably, the project was also a finalist for the Times Higher Education Award for Outstanding Regional Contribution. Projek BacaBaca's ongoing contributions to SDG Goal 4: Quality Education are exemplified through its work with underserved communities, including children from urban public housing areas in Kuala Lumpur and remote villages such as Bokilong in Sabah, where educational resources are limited. By extending its reach to these areas, the initiative ensures that no child is left behind, offering vital educational support and personalized reading sessions to those who would otherwise struggle with basic literacy.
This accolade marks a significant milestone in Projek BacaBaca's journey, highlighting its lasting impact on communities and its continued commitment to creating a more educated and equitable future.