Cover image via New Straits Times
A local maths teacher has made Malaysia proud by being selected as one of the world's top 18 educators for the Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement (TEA) Programme Spring 2025 in the US
Lee Chye Mei, who teaches at Sekolah Menengah Teknik Tuanku Ja'afar in Seremban, was Malaysia's sole representative in the highly competitive programme, reported Harian Metro.
Selected from thousands of applicants worldwide, she spent six weeks at Georgia State University and also taught at North Atlanta High School.
"This experience really opened my eyes," Lee said.
"I learned how students can be more active, critical, and confident when teachers act as facilitators, not just content deliverers."
The exposure to student-centred learning and creative use of technology, she said, brought new life and interactivity into the classroom, a contrast to traditional teaching methods.
Beyond academics, Lee also took the opportunity to introduce Malaysia's rich culture to the school community and her fellow international participants.
"Talking about Malaysia filled me with a sense of pride that's hard to put into words. It wasn't just about food or clothing, but our values, our hopes, and the spirit of our people," she said.
Lee credited the Malaysian-American Commission on Educational Exchange (MACEE) for their support throughout the journey
"Without their encouragement, I wouldn't be here. They saw a small spark of potential that could lead to a bigger impact," she added.
For Lee, being a teacher goes beyond delivering lessons; it's about helping young people believe in their own potential.
"Every time a student asks a question with confidence, it's a sign that change is happening," she said.
Image via New Straits Times
