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USM School of Educational Studies Team Wins Multiple International Awards at the 17th EUROINVENT 2025

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have garnered international recognition for their innovative project “G.P.A.T.H.S.: Gamified Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social” at the prestigious 17th European Exhibition of Creativity and Innovation (EUROINVENT 2025) held from 8 to 10 May 2025 in Iasi, Romania.

The team was led by both project leaders, Associate Prof. Dr. Thien Lei Mee (School of Educational Studies & IPPTN, USM) and Prof. Daniel T.L. Shek (Department of Applied Social Sciences, PolyU), together with Ms. Richelle Elisan Gerong (Ed.D student, School of Educational Studies, USM) and Dr. Lim Chia Yean (School of Computer Sciences, USM).

Their project earned the following accolades:

  • Gold Medal Award – EUROINVENT 2025
  • Diploma of Excellence– EUROINVENT 2025
  • Special Award from the Toronto International Society of Innovation & Advanced Skills (TISIAS)
  • Special Award from the Turkish Inventors Association (TÜMMİAD)
  • Special Award from the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, Romania

The award-winning invention G.P.A.T.H.S. is a gamified learning tool designed to digitize and enhance the delivery of the Positive Adolescent Training through Holistic Social (P.A.T.H.S.) teaching modules. As an extension of P.A.T.H.S., GP.A.T.H.S. offers a dynamic and student-centered platform featuring storytelling, task-based progression, mastery checkpoints, and rewards-based gameplay. It enhances student motivation and engagement through high interactivity, visual cues, and open-world re-playability that supports personalized learning. This invention also fosters critical 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and emotional regulation. Packaged as a SCORM-compatible module, G.P.A.T.H.S. integrates seamlessly into Learning Management Systems (LMS), reducing teacher workload and supporting data-driven teaching. The project aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality).

EUROINVENT, the European Exhibition of Creativity and Innovation, is the largest invention exhibition in Eastern Europe. Held annually at the Palace of Culture in Iași, Romania, it gathers participants from over 30 countries, showcasing innovations in science, engineering, education, and technology. Now in its 17th edition, the event is organized under the auspices of the International Federation of Inventors' Associations (IFIA) and the World Invention Intellectual Property Associations (WIIPA). EUROINVENT fosters global collaboration by connecting leading researchers, inventors, and institutions committed to meaningful and impactful innovation.

In receiving these accolades, the USM team has demonstrated excellence in research innovation and international collaboration, reinforcing the university’s position as a leader in educational technology and positive youth development.

The School of Educational Studies extends its warm congratulations to the entire team for their success and for advancing the university’s mission of excellence in research, innovation, and education for sustainable futures.