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Johor Bahru, June 2025<\/strong> \u2013 As part of the UTM KTP@Faculty 2024 initiative, the Department of Mathematical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), collaborated with SMK Pulai Jaya<\/strong> to organize an innovative Mathematics Reinforcement Workshop<\/strong>. The program was led by Dr. Noraihan Afiqah Rawi<\/strong> with the support of the STEMaths & Community Committee, aiming to address learning gaps in mathematics among secondary school students by leveraging academic-community partnerships.<\/p>\n This initiative was executed in two phases. The first phase<\/strong>, held from 10\u201311 October 2024<\/strong>, involved direct teaching sessions conducted by UTM lecturers and final-year undergraduate students for 40 selected Form 2 students<\/strong>. The content focused on core algebra topics \u2013 specifically factorization and expansion \u2013 which were identified as areas of concern through discussions with mathematics teachers at SMK Pulai Jaya. Students participated in interactive group activities designed to deepen conceptual understanding and build problem-solving confidence.<\/p>\n In the second phase<\/strong>, conducted on 23\u201324 June 2025<\/strong>, the program evolved into a peer-led model. Students who had previously attended Phase I (now in Form 3) were appointed as facilitators<\/strong>, guiding a new batch of Form 2 students. UTM lecturers assumed an advisory role, observing and mentoring the facilitators throughout the sessions. This structure not only reinforced the facilitators\u2019 mastery of mathematical concepts but also nurtured leadership, communication, and mentoring skills among the student mentors.<\/p>\n The impact of this two-tiered knowledge transfer model was significant. Academic performance analysis showed noticeable improvement in mathematics exam results among participants of both phases. Feedback collected through post-workshop surveys indicated that students appreciated the engaging, hands-on approach and found the peer-led format more relatable and less intimidating. Meanwhile, the facilitators expressed increased confidence in both their mathematical abilities and interpersonal skills.<\/p>\n Beyond academic gains, the workshop fostered a culture of mutual support, active learning, and student empowerment. By positioning students as both learners and teachers, the initiative promoted a sustainable, scalable model for enhancing STEM education in schools. It also strengthened ties between UTM and local education stakeholders, including the Johor State Education Department (JPNJ), SMK Pulai Jaya\u2019s Mathematics Panel, and the Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG).<\/p>\n The Mathematics Reinforcement Workshop stands as a testament to UTM’s commitment to community-driven knowledge transfer, and its broader mission to transform lives through education, mentorship, and collaboration.<\/p>\n