Music Teacher Wins Award for Students with Disabilities
Stefanus Lucas,a dedicated music teacher from sabah,has won the prestigious Rise Educator Award! This recognition celebrates his remarkable commitment to providing special needs music education. Lucas, who teaches at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Pendidikan khas, will use the award funds to enhance his music classroom and purchase new instruments for his students, especially those who are deaf, striving to create a unique musical ensemble. The award highlights the power of music and education for students with disabilities. The article published on News Directory 3 explores the details of this inspiring achievement. Discover what’s next in the story of this inspiring educator and his students.
Sabah Music Teacher wins Rise Educator Award
Updated June 14, 2025
SUBANG JAYA — Stefanus Lucas, a music teacher from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, received the Rise Educator award for his dedication to students with disabilities. Lucas teaches at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Pendidikan khas.
The award includes a prize of 5,000 ringgit for Lucas and 50,000 ringgit for his school. Despite lacking formal training in special needs education, Lucas established a specialized music room and formed a school band to showcase his students’ talents.
Lucas expressed surprise and excitement upon receiving the award Saturday. “I’m very excited, and I didn’t expect to win,” Lucas said. “Just making it into the top five was already enough for me. I’m very excited and happy.”
He plans to use the funds to improve the music classroom and purchase new instruments for his students who are deaf. Lucas aims to create a student ensemble that blends traditional and modern instruments. He noted that the Sabah Government Office has already provided support by donating ukuleles.
Four other finalists were recognized: Mohd Nur Hifzhan from SK Sungai Passai, Sarawak; Dr. Mohd Zamri from SK Kampung Tun Razak, Melaka; Izzat Fahim Ibrahim from SK Tagibang Kota Marudu, Sabah; and Hallsen Justin from SK Timbua, Sabah.Each finalist received 1,000 ringgit, and their schools received 10,000 ringgit.
The Rise Educator Award winner and finalists were chosen based on a combination of public votes (25%) and assessments from a panel of judges (75%). The Risers, the student engagement division of Taylor’s Collage, organizes the annual Rise Educator Award to recognise outstanding educators across the nation.
What’s next
Lucas intends to expand his music program, providing more opportunities for students with disabilities to explore their musical talents and develop their skills.