KUCHING – Crossing a chest-deep river and wading through swamps were some of the challenges members of the Swinburne Sarawak Student Council (SSSC) went through as part of a leadership and team building exercise at Camp Pueh in Sematan, recently.
Put together by the Student Operations Department of Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, the 20-odd SSSC members took part in the two-day camp headed by Frederick T. A. Tan, a sports psychologist from the National Sports Institute of Malaysia who was specially brought in from Kuala Lumpur.
Throughout the two days, the students, who only recently took up their respective SSSC posts for the year, were tested on their ability to follow instructions, devise plans in tackling problems or obstacles and work in teams.
“The training camp they have to go through is especially important because of the role the SSSC plays. They (committee members) are the ones who look into the interests of students and organise events for their peers throughout the year,” said Mohamed Hisyam Jamal Mohd, Assistant Manager with the Client Services of the Student Operations.
“This requires good planning and organisational skills on top of having the ability to work in a team environment as well as independently.”
Despite some of the hardships they had to go through, the students shared a positive attitude.
“I believe that we are all leaders and activities like this can further help us discover and develop our leadership potential. I know that most of my fellow camp participants will agree that we are now more aware and sensitized when it comes to teamwork and actively listening,” said Nigerian student Abdullahi Baba Ari, vice-president of the SSSC.
Treasurer Chloe Tsai said the training gave her the opportunity to really get to know other council members. Getting closely acquainted with other students gave her more confidence in executing her role as the council’s treasurer.
“One thing that is very important here at the leadership camp is for us to find our leadership niche so we can apply them within our community,” she added.
Students Daniel Sineros felt that two days were not enough time for such a program. Born and raised in Kuching, he looks forward to joining such camps again as he enjoys the rough and tumble of camp life, having spent most of his growing years at his parents’ kampung.
“The activities were challenging and exciting. Most were aimed at teaching participants the true meaning of teamwork and cooperation, to enhance problem-solving skills especially when working in a group,” he said, adding that the experience and lessons learnt can be applied in every-day life.
The camp was not all about sweat and pain, however. During the camp, the students also had a chance to throw a surprise birthday party for their friends.