QIU, through its School of Education, recently hosted the Children of the World Showcase, a vibrant and inclusive educational event designed to give local schoolchildren meaningful exposure to global cultures while providing QIU students with invaluable hands-on teaching experience.
Organised by students from the Bachelor in Early Childhood Education and Bachelor in Special Needs programmes, the showcase transformed experiential learning into a real-world platform where theory met practice. The event featured a lively booth exhibition representing countries and cultures from around the world, with each booth offering interactive activities aimed at nurturing curiosity, creativity, and social awareness among children.
Visitors, particularly young learners from the local community, took part in hands-on activities such as cultural games, storytelling sessions, arts and crafts, and learning-through-play experiences. These activities reflected best practices in early childhood education and inclusive pedagogy, while allowing QIU students to apply classroom knowledge in an authentic educational setting.
The programme was further enriched by cultural dance performances presented by students from the Bachelor in Early Childhood Education, celebrating diversity and creative expression. A fashion runway segment by students from the Bachelor in Special Needs programme stood out as a powerful demonstration of inclusivity, confidence, and self-advocacy, reinforcing the importance of representation and empowerment in education.
One of the most meaningful highlights of the event was the Master Chef Competition, which brought together students with special needs from SMK Ulu Kinta and SMK Tambun. Conducted in a supportive and celebratory environment, the activity provided participants with an opportunity to demonstrate practical life skills, teamwork, and independence—key elements in holistic and inclusive learning.
Overall, the Children of the World Showcase exemplified QIU’s School of Education’s commitment to community engagement, inclusive education, and experiential learning. By creating a platform that connected university students with local schools and children, the event not only enriched young participants but also prepared future educators with real-world experience, empathy, and a global perspective—hallmarks of QIU’s approach to teacher education.
