Penang Free School marks 210 years with push for digital transformation

George Town, Oct 2 — To commemorate its 210th anniversary, Penang Free School (PFS) is ramping up its digital transformation efforts to better equip students for the evolving education and technology landscape, according to the school's Organising Committee chairman Ivan Ooi Jieun Vei. The anniversary celebrations have given PFS the chance to rally the school community for support of the PFS Digital Transformation Fund, which aims to bolster the school's digital infrastructure and capabilities.

"This is not simply a celebration of 210 years of history. It is a call to action for the entire Penang Free School community to unite and invest in our shared future," Ooi said. The fund's focus lies in strengthening digital infrastructure, improving educators' proficiency, and exposing students to STEM, AI, robotics, coding, and emerging digital technologies.

As of September 28, 13 75-inch Hisense Smartboards have been procured, contributing to the goal of 33 units to be installed across the school. Ooi emphasized that the Digital Transformation Fund would supplement, not supplant, government funding, with the primary objective being the development of talents that will drive Penang's future economy.

The pinnacle of the celebrations is the 210th Anniversary Dinner at PFS, which kicks off tomorrow from 6pm to 11.30pm, showcasing a performance by Malaysia's Queen of Rock, Ella, alongside PFS students.