SINTOK, 10 November 2024: Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) hosted its 2024 Global Partnership Dinner, last night in celebration of the 37th UUM Convocation Ceremony.
This event marked a momentous evening dedicated to celebrating international collaboration and academic excellence. This event brought together esteemed delegates from leading educational institutions, featuring Universitas Mercu Buana, Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta, Universitas Jenderal Soedirman, Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. Dr. Hamka, Universitas Brawijaya, Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Ampel Surabaya, Lembaga Studi Indonesia Malaysia from Indonesia, as well as Prince of Songkla University and Mahasarkham University from Thailand, along with Termez State University and Oriental University from Republic of Uzbekistan.
During his welcoming address, UUM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering global partnerships that transcend borders. He conveyed sincere gratitude to the attending partners, recognising the significant impact these relationships have on enriching UUM’s global academic and research landscape.
“Our partnerships with institutions worldwide transcend mere strategy; they are built on trust, mutual understanding, and a shared commitment to advancing higher education. Each partnership contributes its own unique value, creating a vibrant, diverse environment where ideas can flourish and grow,” he stated.
The dinner also celebrated UUM’s recent achievements in global rankings, proudly maintaining its position within the 401-500th bracket of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and rising to 554th in the QS World University Rankings.
Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan attributed these successes to UUM’s dedication to academic excellence and the invaluable support of its international partners, emphasizing that these collaborations are essential for preparing students to face global challenges.
Director of the Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC), Assoc. Prof. Dr Arpah Abu Bakar also addressed the gathering, sharing insights into UUM’s expanding global network.
She highlighted the university’s remarkable growth in international partnerships, stating, “As of the third quarter of 2024, UUM proudly holds 110 active MoUs and MoAs with 91 institutions worldwide. This growth underscores our commitment to fostering robust, global academic alliances and signifies the strategic value we place on partnerships worldwide.”
She also enthusiastically highlighted UUM’s recent advancements in Central and West Asia, showcasing the establishment of new partnerships in Uzbekistan and Turkiye, signalling an exciting new chapter for the university.
The evening featured cultural performances by UUM students, showcasing Malaysia’s rich heritage through captivating traditional dances and musical presentations. Assoc. Prof. Dr Arpah emphasized the significance of cultural exchange in these collaborations, saying, “Our partnerships extend beyond academia—they aim to cultivate enduring legacies through innovation and the exchange of knowledge, enriching the educational experience for students and faculty alike.”
UUM’s 2024 Global Partnership Dinner underscored the university’s commitment to advancing global education, fostering cultural understanding, and making a significant impact through its international partnerships.
As the evening drew to a close, the Vice-Chancellor and CIAC Director expressed their hopes for continued collaboration with these esteemed institutions, celebrating shared achievements and eagerly anticipating future endeavors that will shape the global academic landscape.
Earlier, the Letter of Intent (LoI) Signing Ceremony between UUM and Termez State University, Republic of Uzbekistan took place where UUM was represented by the Vice Chancellor and TSU by Mr. Abduqodir Toshqulov, Rector of Termez State University. – Mohd Azri Abdul Aziz