Penang River Educational Programme: A Case Study of University Students’ Involvement in Community River and Water Management

Abstract

A university’s role has evolved from solely academic to being more socially responsible which
can benefit local communities. University students are expected to be more sensitive towards
community issues and contribute to community welfare via community engagement
programmes. In Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), a group of students are carrying out outreach
programmes to increase awareness and educate the local communities in river conservation.
This paper discusses the role of USM students in a project on Penang River and Water
Educational Programme. It highlights the contributions made by the USM students in creating
awareness and educating the public towards conserving rivers and water resources, and the
impact from this university-community engagement