Where words meet wellness, IMU’s SpeakUp! Challenge 2024 ignited a vibrant conversation on the role of communication in transforming healthcare.
On 5 October, 2024, the Department of Social Sciences, School of Psychology and Social Sciences, IMU University hosted the SpeakUp! Challenge, an event that brought together young orators to demonstrate their public speaking skills while addressing the critical importance of health communication. Held at IMU Bukit Jalil campus, the competition served as a platform to spotlight the innovative Bachelor of Communication with Health (Honours) programme, a unique degree designed to equip students with the skills to bridge the communication gap between healthcare providers and the public.
The SpeakUp! Challenge featured 19 video submissions from students representing 12 different educational institutions across Malaysia. From this diverse pool, 10 outstanding participants were shortlisted for the final round. The final stage tested the participants’ impromptu speaking abilities, requiring them to draw topics on the spot and deliver insightful speeches. This spontaneous format allowed competitors to showcase their ability to think critically and communicate effectively under pressure.
Winners of the Competition
First Place
Yoong Yong Qing
IMU University
Second Place
Nur Sakinah Nadrah Binti Ahmad Nizam
Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Penanti, Pulau Pinang
Third Place
Clarissa Cheah Jean Lee
Cempaka School, Cheras, Selangor
Consolation Prizes
Shreelakshmi A/P K. Thiruchelvan
Chong Zhan Xuan
Sri Cempaka Cheras
IMU University
This inspiring event not only showcased the exceptional public speaking talents of these students but also highlighted the Bachelor of Communication with Health (Honours) programme’s focus on the essential role of communication in the health sector. Judges and attendees alike were impressed by the depth of knowledge, poise, and enthusiasm exhibited by the competitors, reinforcing the critical importance of effective communication in promoting health and wellness.
The SpeakUp! Challenge provided a vibrant platform to engage the next generation of communicators in addressing pressing healthcare issues. It also raised awareness of IMU’s commitment to preparing students to lead in the evolving landscape of healthcare communication. IMU eagerly anticipates welcoming more passionate students who wish to make a difference through the power of communication.
Written by Dr Thulasimani Munohsamy
Edited by Dr Arlini Alias
