Service Learning (SL) is a “form of experiential learning which occurs through a cycle of action and reflection as students apply what they are learning to address real community needs” (Malaysia Education Blueprint 2015-2025, pg. 1-9). Existing studies have shown that integrating academics and community service delivers greater development of student soft skills, enriches learning experiences and improves academic performance.

In line with the aspiration of the Ministry of Higher Education, Faculty of Computer Science & Information Technology (FCSIT) in Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) has decided to reap these benefits as another milestone in achieving better teaching and learning quality into one faculty core course namely Technopreneurship and Product Development (TMC3034) since session 2016/2017 Semester 1. The course serves to prepare the students with the knowledge in running technology-based entrepreneurial ventures with technology products and services as their core business.

In addition, the incorporation of SL into this course also allows the students to be viewed as a social technopreneur by looking at the social impacts that could be created. A main requirement for SL implementation is to gather real user requirements through visits to the community sites. The sites normally covers villages or schools in Kuching, Kota Samarahan and nearby districts in Sarawak. The main outcome from the SL activities are reflections by the students, stakeholders, faculty supervisors and community supervisors.