Student Council Wannabes test run new “Speaker’s Corner”

Sunway University College (Sunway) opened a new chapter in the history of private higher educational institutions when it became the first private higher education to launch a Speaker’s Corner recently. Extolling free speech, Speaker’s Corner at Sunway is aimed to encourage free expression of ideas, views and opinions and to develop confidence in public speaking among its students. It is also a forum for the healthy communication of ideas, thoughts, issues and information.

Sonia Lee Yi Jie from A-Levels

To initiate this, 17 students were given a chance to shine at the rostrum by presenting their argument for “Why I want to serve on the Sunway University College Student Council 2010”. All the students rose to the occasion by eloquently pitching their strengths and highlighting their concerns on various issues on campus. They impressed and swayed the audience with their enthusiasm, confidence and oratorical skills.

Fatima Khakoo from CIMP who hails from Tanzania

Nur Rafiqah Binte Rahman from Singapore is studying in the ACCA at Sunway

Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr.) Ramon Navaratnam, Pro-Chancellor of Sunway University College and a celebrated speaker himself, gave his verdict of the Speaker’s Corner. “Student Council members stand to gain from their exposure to public speaking and I support Speaker’s Corner as it provides a platform for students to improve themselves and ultimately do well in their careers. This is a wonderful debating corner for the university college and its launch is a milestone event.”  He added that he looked forward to seeing more students participating in the Speaker’s Corner in future.

The Student Services Department of Sunway University College will be planning speaking events in the near future with topics on current issues. This would allow students a chance to express themselves in an open debate and encourage analytical as well as critical thinking in order to prepare them for their future in the working world.