CENTRE FOR MODERN LANGUAGES (CML) UMPSA HOSTS GROUNDBREAKING MEETINGS TO ENHANCE EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS AND INDUSTRY RELEVANCE
Kuala Lumpur, 24th to 25th February 2024
In a pivotal two-day event held at the Seri Pacific Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, CML UMPSA orchestrated a series of meetings toward educational advancement and industry relevance. Three meeting sessions took place, each engaging distinct participants in discussions spanning various facets of education and industry.
Slot 1: Study Committee Meeting
Led by the venerable Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Ahmad Ziad Sulaiman, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International Affairs), the Study Committee Meeting brought together luminaries such as Professor Ts. Dr. Kamal bin Yusoh (Assistant Vice-Chancellor), Assoc. Professor Dr. Nik Aloesnita Nik Mohd Alwi, the esteemed Dean of CML, the CML management team, and the task force of the new postgraduate certificate program set-up committee. The Study Committee members from the industry, Mr. Mohd Jeffery bin Abdull Manaf, Senior Director of Infineon Technologies (Kulim) Sdn. Bhd. and Mr. Ahmad Thibraani bin Termizi, Senior Project Manager from OSRAM-Opto Semiconductors Sdn. Bhd., also honoured the gathering. Together, the meeting committee meticulously dissected and provided feedback on the undergraduate courses, postgraduate program evaluations, and new program proposals. The objective was not just to maintain but to improve educational standards, ensuring that CML remains at the forefront of providing quality education for our students.
Slot 2: Stakeholders Meeting
At the Stakeholders Meeting, twelve committee members consisting of representatives from various sectors such as academics from higher educational institutions, industries, sponsors, parents, alumni, and current students were present physically and virtually. The meeting was held in a hybrid mode because four of the alumni were broadcasting from Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom and Algeria. The meeting offered insightful contributions to align CML's vision with industry demands and societal needs. Their inputs served as crucial guideposts for CML's strategic direction, emphasising the imperative of producing graduates who are not only linguistically adept but also industry-ready and socially responsible individuals.
Slot 3: Industrial Advisory Panel (IAP) Meeting
The Industrial Advisory Panel (IAP) meeting was honoured by the presence of eminent members from various industries: 1) Pn Farah Hani Roslan, Human Capital Manager, DRB-HICOM Defence Technologies; 2) En Adli Zaim bin Awal, Executive Director, Impressive Logging Services Sdn Bhd; 3) Dr Rashida Mat Rani, Head, Human Capital Division, EON BERHAD (subsidiary of DRB-HICOM Group); 4) Ir. Ts. Noraziah binti Muda, Head of Unit Renewable Energy and Green Technology Unit, TNB Research Sdn.Bhd; 6) Pn Nursoraya binti Abdul Rahma, Head, Corporate Affairs and Commercial, TETO Engineering Sdn Bhd; and 6) Pn Hamidah Khan, Manager, Group Risk, Capital A Berhad, KLIA. The committee members explored into strategic collaborations and industry-focused initiatives. The discussions centred on bridging the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that CML's programmes remain agile and responsive to the dynamic needs of the professional landscape. The objective was clear: to foster symbiotic relationships that empower graduates with the requisite skills and knowledge to thrive in today's competitive marketplace.
Through these strategic meetings, CML UMPSA reaffirmed its dedication to excellence, innovation, and societal impact. Drawing upon the collective wisdom of academia, industry, and stakeholders, CML aims to continuously enhance educational standards, ensuring program quality and relevance to meet global demands. Emphasising alignment with industry needs, CML seeks to enhance graduate employability and competitiveness. Ultimately, CML aims to empower graduates with the language skills and mindset necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern world and contribute meaningfully to the industry and society.
Written by:
Dr. Umi Kalsom Masrom & Dr. Fatimah Ali