First City University College (First City UC) strengthens its ties with Chinese Independent High Schools by sponsoring the 2^nd MICSS Art Camp organized by the United Chinese School Committee’s Association of Malaysia. The purpose of the camp was to spread the love for art and design in Chinese independent schools in Malaysia. The expertise of First City UC’s Faculty of Design and Built Environment teaching staff was sought after at this event held at Chung Hua Independent High School, Klang from 31 May to 2 June 2016. With the theme “Science Meets Art,” the Art Camp was well attended by 350 teachers and students from 22 Chinese independent high schools in Malaysia.

Ms Siow Yin Yoong, Dean of the Faculty of Design and Built Environment, lent her expertise by serving as a judge for the Science Meets Art Competition. In her keynote address entitled, “Design and Technology in the Digital Age,” she elaborated how modern technology can be applied to design. “I understand that most of you come from the generation of the digital age where the use of technology is something that you can easily identify with and appreciate. By combining technology and design, a great potential will be opened up to explore new worlds and create limitless possibilities.”

A master talk entitled, “Culture and the Creative Industry” was conducted by Mr Arthur Liaw and Ms Cheah Wen Ing, both course coordinators of the Faculty. Focusing on the fundamentals of design and how culture can inspire design and vice versa, they share the true value of design and how design can be applied in the world. They emphasized that contrary to opinions that design is merely just drawing, it can have a profound impact on culture. “The true value of design is often underrated,” they said.

Another highlight at the Art Camp was the introduction of the 3D printer, the latest in design technology. “We are proud that First City University College is one of the first private educational institutions to introduce such sophisticated technology to the students. The role of 3D printing in teaching and educational programmes has taken the learning process to a whole new level,” said Ms Siow Yin Yoong. She also added that the ability to convert designs into products using the 3D printer is rapidly changing the world.

The design students of First City UC have always been top winners of various prizes and awards in local and international competitions. The conceptual and skill-based learning adopted by First City UC promotes high employability. This coupled with excellent facilities, teaching and learning resources readily available at First City UC equip graduates with the skill sets required to excel in their future careers.

First City UC offers a wide range of reputable and well-designed courses in the field of Art and Design, namely the bachelor’s degree programmes in Interior Architecture and Design, Graphic Design and Furniture and Product Design in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University, UK, the Foundation in Art and Design and Diplomas in Interactive Design and Interior Design.

Counsellors are available to attend to queries on extended counselling hours from 8.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. on weekdays and 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. on weekends from 1^st June until 31^st July.

For further details, please contact First City University College, Bandar Utama at 03-77273200, via fax at 03-77272733, email at enquiry@firstcity.edu.my or visit the website at www.firstcity.edu.my. You can also connect with the institution via facebook.com/firstcityUC..