Empowering Innovation: Highlights from the Student Experience Innovation Fund 2024

At the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM), enhancing the student experience is at the heart of what we do. To reinforce this commitment, the Student Experience Innovation Fund was introduced in 2024, providing academic and professional services staff with an opportunity to develop and implement impactful initiatives that contribute to student success and well-being. By investing in innovative solutions, we aim to foster a dynamic and student-centric environment. 

With a total budget of RM150,000, the fund supported projects across various categories, including student well-being, support and communications, industry and community engagement, graduate employability, and fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). The initiative was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, receiving 21 applications, demonstrating a strong interest in shaping the student experience through innovative projects. After a rigorous evaluation process, six projects were selected based on their alignment with UNM’s strategic aims, clarity of objectives, expected impact, feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and long-term sustainability. 

1. We Together Project: Promoting Inclusivity in Sports

   Led by the UNM Sports Complex team, this project aimed to increase awareness and inclusivity for people with disabilities in sports. The initiative successfully engaged the UNM community and the local Semenyih community through activities such as an awareness campaign, a 3KM fun walk, and a para talent identification program. As a result, over 150 participants joined the events, fostering greater inclusivity and understanding of disability sports within and beyond the university.

   

2. IT Service Desk Plus: Enhancing IT Support Accessibility 

   To address long wait times and accessibility for students seeking IT support at the IT Service Office, the IT Department introduced IT Service Desk Plus at multiple high-traffic locations on campus. Inspired by the IT Smart Bar at the UK campus, these booths provided immediate IT support to students. The initiative led to 123 students accessing IT support through these booths, significantly reducing congestion at the main IT Services Office and improving response efficiency. 
   
   

3. Sustainable Waste Management in Student On-Campus Accommodation 
   
   The Campus Services department introduced an upgraded waste management system in on-campus accommodation to promote environmental responsibility among students. Through the installation of improved waste disposal systems and educational campaigns, students developed better waste management habits. This initiative not only created a cleaner and healthier living environment but also contributed to reducing pollution and the environmental footprint of campus operations.
   
   

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5. UNM Entrepreneurial Camp: Empowering Future Entrepreneurs 
   
   Recognising that many students struggle to engage in entrepreneurship due to limited time and opportunities, UNM launched a two-day Entrepreneurial Camp. Over 60 students participated, gaining hands-on experience from four entrepreneurial mentors and industry professionals. The programme equipped students with essential entrepreneurial skills, and igniting entrepreneurship interest among participants following the camp. 
   
   

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7. Education for Sustainability: Student-led Community Outreach 
   
   This initiative empowered student collaboration through a peer-led sustainability education program. 18 peer educators were recruited through UNM student clubs and received training on sustainable food systems, agriculture, food security, nutrition, and waste management. Two workshops were conducted, focusing on health promotion principles, behavior change theories, program planning, and strategic communication. As a result, participating students developed a deeper understanding of sustainable food systems and shared their knowledge with the broader university community. 
   
   
   
   

8. Exchange Theatre: Supporting Student Transition and Cultural Understanding
   
   Designed to help foundation students transition smoothly into university life, the Exchange Theatre project used interactive drama to stimulate discussions about cultural differences, student support, and confidence-building. Over 80 students and staff participated, fostering open dialogue and equipping students with the skills to navigate a diverse academic environment effectively. 
   
   
   
   

A Lasting Impact on Student Experience

The successful projects funded in 2024 played a pivotal role in creating a more engaging, inclusive, and supportive environment for our students. Whether through improving outreach, enhancing residential experiences, or fostering cross-cultural engagement, these initiatives have made a tangible difference in the university community.

The Student Experience Innovation Fund represents UNM’s ongoing commitment to fostering a student-centric campus. As we look forward to the continued growth of this initiative, we encourage students and staff to stay engaged, share ideas, and contribute to future projects that will shape the student experience for years to come.