SHAH ALAM: Today marked the finale of the Toyota Eco Youth Programme (TEY) 2023/2024 with a closing ceremony held at the Everly Hotel, Putrajaya.
This annual event, organised by UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MOE), showcased the immense impact of environmental education on the younger generation.
TEY empowers secondary school students to actively engage with environmental issues through innovative initiatives.
This year, 15 schools nationwide, represented by 60 students and 15 teacher advisors, showcased projects addressing specific environmental concerns within their communities.
Since its inception in 2001, TEY has engaged a total of 506 schools and benefited 2,690 students across the nation, leaving an enduring legacy in environmental education.
The heart of TEY lies in its Problem Solving Methodology (PSM), guiding students to devise creative solutions to environmental challenges.
The projects, ranging from local recycling issues to broader community-based problems, demonstrate the students' keen awareness of environmental issues affecting their communities.
Datuk Ravindran K., president of UMW Toyota Motor, reflected on the programme's impact on the younger generation and said,"The impact of programmes like TEY on the younger generation is immeasurable. From its inception in 2001 to the present edition in 2023, TEY has consistently played a pivotal role in shaping the environmental consciousness of our youth. As UMW Toyota Motor, we proudly align with Toyota's global commitment to contribute to a better environment for the next generation. TEY, with its objectives, mission, and vision, reflects our dedication to educating the younger generation through innovative methods like the Toyota 8 Steps Problem Solving Methodology.”
He emphasised Toyota's dedication to contributing to a better environment, incorporating the company's tagline, "Move Your World," and striving for zero CO2 emissions by 2050.
The closing ceremony announced the winners in various categories, with each school receiving accolades for their unique contributions.
The event highlighted the winners:
Champion: SMK SERI AMPANG, KEDAH
1st Runner Up: SMK ST. TERESA KUCHING, SARAWAK
2nd Runner Up: SMK RAJA PUAN MUDA TENGKU FAUZIAH, PERLIS
Best Presentation: SM ST JOHN, SABAH
Best Exhibition: SMK SERI PEKAN, PAHANG
Best Community Engagement: SMK ST. TERESA KUCHING, SARAWAK
Most Supportive Teacher: NUR ASMAA' BT ABDUL HASHIM, SMK SERI AMPANG, KEDAH
Datuk Ravindran acknowledged the hard work of all students since the TEY 2023/2024 launch in August 2023, highlighting the programme's role in preparing future leaders.
“As we stand at the precipice of global climate action, the role of education cannot be overstated. These will empower our youth with the knowledge, skills, and passion needed to tackle the environmental challenges that lie ahead. It is through collective efforts that we can hope to create a sustainable and resilient future” he added.
The exhibition, held on the 22nd of January, featured all 15 schools showcasing their projects. A total of more than 200 students around Putrajaya had the opportunity to engage with these innovative solutions, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues.
The closing ceremony commenced from the 21st until the 23rd of January 2024. As TEY 2023/2024 concludes, anticipation builds for the upcoming TEY edition launching in May 2024.
