15/04/2026
One of the coolest things that happened during this year was the Academics' Networking session! We had multiple educators from across the game development pipeline, sharing different types of expertise - all together. This coincided with the Portfolio Review session during the event at the campus, so the timing itself was fantastic.
It was amazing! There was representation from multiple institutions across both public and private universities, and even some members of industry. In the next round, we have to get more people in as well! We even had the bonus of of joining us, and sharing his insight on the differences between games education and industry between Malaysia and Hong Kong!
Reflecting on ways to improve, this hangout was held during SPM Result weekend, so that's a definite reason why a lot of our peers couldn't join us during that Sunday - but I'm already planning for the next one. And the one after that.👀
The bottom line is - as game development continues to be made popular as a practical subject within our higher learning institutions, it's important that the educators themselves not only touch base with the industry - but also get a feel of what is happening between our respective schools.
At the end of the day, our goals remain similar - we're helping to usher in the next generation of talent that will impact the industry in the ways they see fit. And they'll all be colleagues one way or another, so the onus is on us to ensure not only industry readiness (and everything that could mean! Technical skills, soft skills, all of it!) but our own awareness of what the industry and pipeline will entail.
We have the privilege of teaching students how to create an interactive form of art, that crosses over into multiple diciplines and types of stimulation - it's more than ever so important to recognize where our gaps are, and foster healthy discussions on ways to improve, and see what is working. Especially in my educator's journey, I know that I stand on the shoulders of giants. Who would I be if I did not support those who supported me, and if we do not aid those who are coming in after us? (tbc)
