Master of Counselling students, Goh Ian Shen and Janak Ashok Teckwani, alongside their mentor Dr. Ahmad Mustaqim Yusoff, Senior Lecturer were awarded the Best Category Award (Professionals) at the International Innovation Competition (IIC 2024), organized by University-Malaya Wales. This prestigious event brought together global innovators under the theme "Reshaping Community for Effective Social Impact", showcasing transformative projects aimed at creating meaningful social change.
IIC 2024 featured 80 innovative projects from five countries, representing 23 universities and 10 secondary schools. All projects were focused on developing solutions with the potential to positively impact communities, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The competition provided an important platform for students, researchers, and professionals of all ages to address complex, real-world challenges through digital posters and virtual presentations.
Amidst this distinguished group of participants, Goh Ian Shen and Janak Ashok Teckwani's project, Cognitive Learning Enhancement with Augmented Reality (CLEAR), emerged as a particularly innovative approach to psychoeducation for individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The CLEAR project leverages Augmented Reality (AR) technology to create an interactive and immersive learning environment, specifically designed to address challenges faced by individuals with ADHD. By utilizing AR, the project enables neurodiverse learners to engage more effectively in educational activities, improving focus, cognitive engagement, and retention in areas where conventional methods often fall short.
CLEAR exemplifies the students’ commitment to using technological advancements to enhance educational accessibility and support individuals with unique learning needs. The project represents a significant advancement in the design of psychoeducational tools, making learning more engaging and supportive for those with ADHD, while addressing a critical community need. Winning the Best Category Award at IIC 2024 not only reflects the students' dedication to these values but also underscores the Master of Counselling programme's role in fostering innovation, inclusivity, and social responsibility among its students. CLEAR highlights the programme’s dedication to equipping future counsellors with the skills needed to address mental health and educational disparities.
Participating in IIC 2024 also provided Goh and Janak with invaluable exposure to a wealth of new ideas, the opportunity to connect with industry experts, and insights into how their project can evolve. This achievement showcases the success of the Master of Counselling students and reaffirms the university’s commitment to preparing graduates who can make meaningful contributions to society. Their success at IIC 2024 stands as a testament to their dedication, ingenuity, and the potential of future counsellors to lead with empathy and a commitment to advancing mental health accessibility. The recognition of their work underscores the university’s commitment to empowering students to make a lasting positive impact on their communities and beyond.