THE STAR, THURSDAY 1 JULY 2021 EDUCATION GUIDE

A bright future beckons

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest, so make sure you research your options carefully before pursuing further studies. 2 Education Guide THE STAR, THURSDAY 1 JULY 2021 Stepping stone to a career in accountancy

IT is no secret that the Covid-19 pandemic has changed how we live the world over. While we adjust to the new normal, students who received their SPM results are to answer the same questions as many of us have before: “Now that SPM is over, what’s next?” Students with the propensity for numbers, however, might take solace to discover that the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has launched its foundation in accountancy (FIA) campaign entitled FIA-1-Million. This bursary programme in part- nership with 17 top learning insti- tutions in the country – dubbed the approved learning partners (ALP) – would offer sponsorship grants of up to RM1mil to support the educational pursuits of successful candidates. Students trained in accountancy could look forward to a myriad of roles Students who just completed their SPM examinations are encouraged to Some 1,000 Malaysian students, all the way up the corporate ladder to CFO or CEO. find out more about the ACCA FIA-1-Million Bursary Programme from either secondary school-leavers or now to Dec 31, 2021 at their chosen approved learning partners. graduates from non-accounting is bouncing back in terms of accounting and finance are professions, would be given the confidence, orders, employment encouraged to find out more chance at pursuing a successful and spending. about the ACCA FIA-1-Million career in accounting and finance. “In anticipation of potential Bursary Programme from now to Furthermore, as a profession growth opportunities, we must Dec 31, 2021 at their chosen ALP. that is currently underserved in focus on developing our youth as The ACCA ALP platinum the market, according to ACCA highly skilled talents,” said Ling. partners include Imperium Maritime South-East Asia head As a leading professional body International College, INTEC Edward Ling, this effort strength- that has been developing profes- Education College, Methodist ens the profession while simultane- sional accountants for over 117 College Kuala Lumpur, Sentral ously adding to nation-building. years, ACCA students would College Penang, Sunway College “In order to meet our country’s develop valuable skills like good Ipoh, Sunway College Johor Baru, aspiration of developing 60,000 financial management and Sunway College Kuching, Sunway accountants to support our trans- business decision-making skills, as TES and UOW Malaysia KDU. formation into a developed nation, well as sustainability and ethics Meanwhile, the ACCA ALP we need to work together with our awareness. gold partners are Crescendo partners. Students trained in accountancy International College, Kompas “This includes the education could look forward to a myriad of International College, Institut and government sectors as well roles from entrepreneurship and Akauntan KTC Johor Baru, Institut as employers to look into new ways investments, to social enterprises Sinaran, Methodist Pilley Institute, of developing and increasing the and charity organisations and all Pintar College, Taylor’s College and number of students embarking on the way up the corporate ladder YES International College. the profession which we have to chief financial officer (CFO) or identified as necessary for chief executive officer (CEO). ■ For more information about the Malaysia’s growth,” he said. ACCA Foundation in Accountancy Pursuing a globally recognised (FIA), visit www.accaglobal.com/ Level up with skills qualification my/en/student/FIA.html or contact According to the latest ACCA and Students who have just complet- the approved learning partners ACCA launched its Foundation in Accountancy (FIA) campaign titled IMA Global Economic Conditions ed their SPM examinations and listed to apply for the RM1mil FIA-1-Million aimed at providing 1,000 students with financial assistance Survey (GECS), the global economy interested in pursuing a career in bursary. through its 17 approved learning partners. Nurturing future frontliners

Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology offered by MSU College is designed for students interested in scientific discoveries and medical research.

THE emergence of the Covid-19 frontiers, Management & Science Comprehensive training pandemic has highlighted the vital University (MSU) College offers the The programme is a comprehen- role of Medical Laboratory Diploma in Medical Laboratory sive training and learning experi- Technologists, who are in charge Technology (MLT) to those who are ence in all levels of laboratory of conducting the real-time polymer- interested in scientific discoveries medicine, including haematology ase chain reaction tests (RT-PCR) on and medical research. and microbiology, to name a few. suspected Covid-19 samples. Students are trained to conduct They are the unsung heroes Well-balanced programmes procedures and test specimens from behind the scene. It prepares students with its patients such as blood, urine and Though we cannot see them on well-balanced programmes tissue, and provide reports that the front lines, they have made comprising academic knowledge help doctors decide on diagnosis enormous contributions to the fight with hands-on practical skills, which and patient treatment. against this deadly disease. would enhance students’ knowledge In preparing the medical future and required skills. > TURN TO PAGE 4 THE STAR, THURSDAY 1 JULY 2021 3 4 Education Guide THE STAR, THURSDAY 1 JULY 2021

Producing High demand for engineering competent

THE fields of engineering and of Engineering Technology. graduates technology is one of the highest in The recognition of this pro- demand, which could give a good gramme from the Board of > FROM PAGE 2 opportunity for those interested. Engineers Malaysia (BEM) is also Since 2002, the Universiti Kuala an added value to UniKL-MSI grad- The three-year programme aims Lumpur Malaysian Spanish uates who to date, 86% secured a to produce medical laboratory Institute (UniKL-MSI), in coopera- job in the market within six technologists who are competent, tion with the Spanish government, months after graduation. skilful and capable to meet the offers various courses for diploma Furthermore, students are also human capital needs of the coun- and bachelor’s in Engineering provided with industrial training try, with career opportunities in Technology, with specialisation in and are exposed to a lot of activi- numerous industries such as hospi- mechanical, manufacturing, and ties and programmes to increase tals, clinics, public health laborato- automotive engineering courses their interpersonal skills such as ries, pharmaceutical or chemical which include electrical and communication, leadership, team- industries, biotechnology compa- electronics. work, and problem-solving to cre- nies, veterinary clinics, research As for the diploma course, ate a holistic UniKL-MSI graduate. laboratories, transplant and blood UniKL-MSI offers four which To date, UniKL-MSI graduates donor centres and fertility clinics. includes Diploma of Engineering are working in various engineer- At MSU College, students would Technology in Electromechanical ing, manufacturing and in the be exposed to a holistic learning Installation and Maintenance, multinational sectors locally and experience to build soft skills and Diploma of Engineering Since 2002, the Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Spanish Institute internationally. all the necessary skills that are Technology in Mechanical Design (UniKL-MSI), in cooperation with the Spanish government, offers various Graduates have secured jobs required for a professional MLT. and Development, Diploma of courses for diploma and bachelor’s in Engineering Technology. in nearby Kulim-Hi-Tech Park Meanwhile, the curriculum Electronic Engineering Technology area such as Intel Corporation combines the knowledge of (Industrial Automation and Hi-Tech Park campus. and tools, originally adopted from and First Solar (M) Sdn Bhd as integrated education, health and Control) and Diploma of This programme focuses on all Spain. well as in various local industries education science lab. Engineering Technology in types of mechanical systems design The section houses several such as Coho (M) Sdn Bhd, Sensata Upon completion of the Production. and development including auto- laboratories and workshops, Technologies Malaysia and Proton diploma, students may proceed The programme equips students motive as well as thermodynamics, including Material Engineering to name a few. to a bachelor’s degree programme with wide knowledge and capabili- heat transfer, structures and mate- Laboratory, Thermal Laboratory, Fully owned by Majlis Amanah at Management and Science ties in design for manufacturing of rials, fluid dynamics and advanced Fluid Mechanics laboratory, CAD/ Rakyat (MARA), UniKL-MSI University (MSU) through the mechanical products and prepares control systems. CAE Laboratory, Automotive labs, provides various modern learning Faculty of Health & Life Sciences or graduates with the technical skills Automotive engineering mainly Design Development and facilities on par with facilities used International Medical School (IMS). and capabilities in current distribu- focuses on the design, manufacture Prototyping labs. in industry. Another opportunity for students tion installation. and operation of engines and The courses offered are accredit- Located at Kulim Hi-Tech Park, is the progression to the Bachelor UniKL-MSI Bachelor of cars, where theory and practical ed by the Engineering Technology UniKL-MSI is one of the UniKL of Medicine and Bachelor of Engineering Technology pro- training meets for students to Accreditation Council (ETAC) and campuses offering full-time Surgery (MBBS) programme gramme, on the other hand, experience machines and engines through the recognition has met undergraduate and postgraduate offered through IMS either in Shah explores the field of mechanical, first hand. the requirements of the industry programmes. Alam campus or in MSU offshore mechatronics, manufacturing, The university – which shares and is now also a reference campus in Bangalore, India. automotive and applied electron- technology and expertise with institution for several other institu- ■ For more information, visit ics. In addition, the Bachelor in Spain – provides hi-tech workshops tions in finding methods to run www.unikl.edu.my or call ■ For details on MSU College, Mechanical Engineering with and laboratories, with modern programmes at universities or 04-403 5200 or email look out for the advertisement in Honours is offered at the Kulim equipment, apparatus, machines institutions, especially in the field [email protected] this StarSpecial. THE STAR, THURSDAY 1 JULY 2021 Education Guide 5

How to decide Studying the human brain on your career

THERE are so many career LEARNING of her grandmother’s knowledge I had gained through- Having completed a curriculum choices out there, that it can be Alzheimer’s diagnosis lit a fire in out my time at IMU, my passion mapped to international standards, overwhelming to discover what Akhila Eswaran to study neuro- for research and academic writing all graduates with an IBMS- field to enter. Here are some steps degenerative diseases. was enhanced in my final year, accredited degree are eligible to that will help you make more Hoping to shed light for future with the final-year project, review apply for registration as a biomedi- informed choices. patients, she said: “Despite the article-writing module, as well as cal scientist with the Health and tremendous and extensive the short internship placement, for Care Professions Council (HCPC) in What are your skills and advancement over the past century which I had the opportunity to the UK upon completion of the abilities? in medical science, pharmacology, apply to any research laboratory/ IBMS Certificate of Competence What subjects did you excel at in and medical technology, the onset institute of my preference. training portfolio. school? Do you have talents outside of her symptoms despite possible “I am forever grateful to my Accreditation also provides eligi- the curriculum? What about slowing down, were ultimately former principal investigator at the bility for the Institution to become personal abilities? Answers may inevitable.” University of Alberta for graciously a member of HUCBMS (Heads of include: foreign languages, good Akhila’s interest and passion accepting me as an intern during University Centres of Biomedical at memorising things, good dancer, for studying the human brain, those three months. Science). etc. however, began long before. “At the research lab, apart from Students can choose to obtain a “Ever since I learned of the gaining extensive knowledge in the Biomedical Science degree at IMU, What are you interested in? words ambition and occupation, I field of neurodegenerative diseas- or select a credit transfer track to Think in terms of areas that knew I had to pursue my interest es, I also came to realise how much complete their studies at one of interest you and things that are and passion for studies on the I enjoy thinking critically, solving three partner universities such as important to you. Answers may human brain. problems, and delving deeper University of Newcastle (Australia), include: working with animals, “With that drive and ambition, I down into the recesses of my intel- University of Otago (New Zealand), travelling a lot, and being respect- graduated with my pre-university ‘Ever since I learned of the words lect,” she said. or the University of Strathclyde ed in the community or helping qualification wanting to pursue a ambition and occupation, I knew Several months after graduating (UoS) (Scotland). others. medical degree. I had to pursue my interest and from IMU, Akhila was accepted The next commencement dates “I ended up changing my mind passion for studies on the human into the graduate school at the for this programme are in July and Talk to people during the university application brain,’ said Akhila Eswaran. University of Alberta. September. If you have several careers in process as I stumbled upon a “I am currently in the first Students who have pre-universi- mind, ask people you know to put course which I had never heard of venture into. semester of my graduate degree ty qualifications and interest in you in touch with people already before; biomedical science. This could be in laboratory and am working on a project using Biomedical Science, are encour- working in those fields. Find out “After some enlightening work, research, academics, bio- Drosophila Melanogaster (fruit aged to apply online now and the pros and cons, what sort of research, I decided to take up informatics, medical sales and flies) as model organisms, to study join the university in pursuit of a training you need, and whether, if this course instead of medicine, marketing, or even a further the possibility of rescuing memory promising and rewarding career. you later decide you made a wrong with the intention of furthering to degree or specialisation. loss and dementia in Parkinson’s Students who just completed choice, what sort of alternative a MSc and PhD in Neuroscience Furthermore, pursuing a disease,” she said. their SPM and do not have pre- careers would be open to you. later on,” she said. degree at the International Medical The IMU BSc (Hons) in university qualifications, are During her research, she University (IMU) was a no-brainer Biomedical Science is a three-year encouraged to enrol in the one- Volunteer said, led to the realisation that as, she said, it has reputable stand- programme and one of the select year IMU Foundation in Science. Get a part-time job or volunteer Biomedical Science is a versatile ards, outstanding recommenda- few in Malaysia accredited by the in the field of your choice or work degree that not only provides vast tions from alumni and Institute IBMS, the leading professional ■ For more information, visit with people who are in your knowledge in the medical sciences of Biomedical Science (IBMS) body for scientists and students www.imu.edu.my or email dream job. If you’re still set, a but also gives its graduates a wide accreditation. in the field of biomedical science [email protected] or call little experience will make your scope of career opportunities to “Along with the invaluable globally. 03-2731 7272. training more meaningful. 6 Education Guide THE STAR, THURSDAY 1 JULY 2021

Taking notes for exams Dealing with the loss of an eye

IT’S the last lecture and you realise you’ve LOSING an eye compromises facial appear- been listening (sort of) and reading (some- ance and affects quality of life. An artificial what) and thinking (when writing assign- eye can help – it is not really an eye, but a ments) but you know you’re nowhere near shell that covers the structures in the eye ready to face exams. Now it’s time to hit socket. the books and go into revision mode. Here The maxillofacial prosthodontist along are some methods that can helpfully make with dental technologist play a major role cramming a little easier. in aesthetically rehabilitating such defects. The team at AIMST University’s Faculty Go through everything and make a list of of Dentistry excels in rehabilitation of such topic headings defects. Think big picture: usually there’s six or The Bachelor of Dental Technology pro- seven big topics per semester. gramme at AIMST University covers these (Left) A pre-operative patient and (right) post-operative picture. aspects of prosthesis fabrication and gives Go through lecture notes students advanced knowledge in this field. prosthetic eye. • Use lubricating eye drops over your Divide them up into those big topics. Outpatient services at AIMST University The maxillofacial prosthodontist will prosthetic eye. include: measure the eye defect and prepare a • Rinse any debris off your prosthetic eye, Go through your textbook • Extra-oral maxillofacial prosthesis mould. when necessary. Make a list of pages that match your big like eye, ear, nose and such retained with Later, the different parts of an eye are • Get your prosthetic eye polished annual- topics. medical-grade adhesives. incorporated. It requires three to four visits ly, if required. • Intra-oral maxillofacial prosthesis like to complete this prosthesis. • Change your prosthesis once every five Read the book pages that are relevant maxillary obturator, mandibular guidance The final prosthetic eye would look like a years or sooner if necessary. Read the lecture notes. Do this in block appliances, speech aid prosthesis. highly polished marble, which is made up of mode. Now you have a great overview. • Finger prostheses and such. a special type of acrylic material. What is the outlook for having a Maxillofacial prosthodontics is a sub- The prosthetic eye moves and synchronis- prosthetic eye? Highlight the key phrases in the lecture specialty of Prosthodontics (a specialty of es with the healthy contralateral eye, but not Having a prosthetic eye can help boost notes Dentistry) dealing with the rehabilitation as fully as the natural eye. It depends on the confidence following the loss of an eye. You should only mark about 10% to 20% of patients with acquired and congenital extent of surrounding structures supporting Additionally, it is relatively easy to wear and of the total text. Each highlighted item (birth) defects of the head and neck the eyeball and the extent of the defect. maintain. should spark a memory that brings back the region. Maxillofacial prosthesis refers to If you are thinking about getting a info surrounding that key phrase. the artificial replacement of such defects. Caring for a prosthetic eye prosthetic eye, visit AIMST University’s Maintenance of your prosthetic eye Faculty of Dentistry. The team will rehabili- Go through the book and take notes What is a prosthetic eye? involves minimal but regular care: tate the eye defect aesthetically for you Tip: if you write these by hand, it will The purpose of a prosthetic eye is to create • Remove the prosthetic eye once in two to live comfortably. boost your memory. However, if you have a balanced facial appearance and increase weeks and wash it well with soap and water. messy handwriting, type up your notes comfort in the eye socket where the eye is Dry it before placing it back in your eye This article was contributed by Assoc instead. Your notes will form a visual missing. It is basically for improving facial socket. Prof Dr Ajay Jain [MDS, Maxillofacial memory too, so the aim is to be neat. aesthetics – a person cannot see using this • Sleep with your prosthesis in place Prosthodontist, AIMPT (Glasgow, Scotland, unless otherwise advised by your doctor. UK)] from AIMST University’s Faculty of • Place your prosthetic eye into your Dentistry. eye socket using a plunger intended for this purpose. ■ For details, look out for the advertisement • Do not remove the prosthetic eye often. in this StarSpecial. THE STAR, THURSDAY 1 JULY 2021 Education Guide 7 How to impress in presentations

WANT to ace a presentation? you’re stumbling and stammering. Do an equipment check Check out these tips. Research your subject and read Turn up early and run through wider than you have to. That way, everything so that if you need an Figure out your timing you can speak with confidence. extra cable or something doesn’t Nervous speakers often race work, you can deal with it without through slides but when your audi- Don’t leave loose ends your audience becoming bored ence is learning, you need to give Every story has a start, middle while waiting. them time to absorb what you’re and end. Your talk should follow saying. A rule of thumb is to allow this. Introduce your subject, talk Adapt one slide per 90 seconds of talking. and then present them with a con- While you are talking, you will clusion. see if people are yawning, twitch- Hand out your slides If it’s a very academic talk, have ing or looking blank. As you’re pre- Start by telling people they don’t an extra slide with references. You pared, you will have time to adjust need to take notes because you’re don’t present these but when peo- your pace to your audience. Speed making your slides available. ple need to check your sources, up slightly if they’re bored and Email them or put them up on they’ll be handy. slow down if they need to catch up. your blog. Now your audience can concentrate on what you’re saying. Practise Say thanks Stand up at home and give a You want these people to be Prepare a great show presentation to the cat or dog. invested, so thank them for coming Fancy transitions and lots of Then fix any bits that didn’t work at the start and thank them for While you are talking, you will see if people are yawning or looking blank colour images don’t mean much if or were too slow or too fast. listening at the end. so adjust your pace to suit your audience. A celebration of achievements

Curtin Malaysia is Curtin University’s largest global campus and hub in Asia.

CURTIN University Malaysia (Curtin Meanwhile, Curtin Malaysia pro vice- Malaysia), the largest global campus of chancellor, president and chief executive Curtin University located here in Malaysia, Prof Simon Leunig said the latest results along with the main campus in Perth and would have a significant impact on Curtin global campuses in Singapore, Dubai and Malaysia as it seeks to recruit more students Mauritius, are all celebrating Curtin’s latest from across the world and expand its achievements in the QS World University regional footprint as Curtin’s education Rankings (QSWUR) 2022. and research hub in Asia. Curtin achieved two major milestones – a “As a global university with a robust One QS Five Stars Plus rating, the highest availa- University approach and highly-integrated ble for a tertiary institution and jumping into campuses, it reflects to a great degree on the the world’s top 200 in the prestigious global quality and excellence at Curtin’s global cam- rankings. Curtin is only one of three puses, particularly in the teaching, research universities in Australia to achieve the and internationalisation components of the QS Five Stars Plus rating. rankings,” said Prof Leunig. The result followed a comprehensive “In Malaysia, it certainly places Curtin evaluation by QS across a range of areas Malaysia in the top tier of institutions for including research, employability, teaching, learning environment, industry engagement facilities, internationalisation, inclusiveness and research outcomes. and innovation. “Our research performance is now par- A Five Stars Plus institution must achieve ticularly strong due to the exceptional work five stars across all categories. of our talented staff in both leading break- Curtin University vice-chancellor Prof throughs and inspiring the next generation; Harlene Hayne said the rating confirms as well as our latest investments in research Curtin’s excellence, agility, and resilience infrastructure and commitment to world- even in times of extraordinary change and class research. uncertainty. “Our continued application of new teach- Curtin also rose 23 places from last year to ing technologies and innovative pedagogies, rank 194th globally, and 11th in Australia in as well as sustained focus on collaboration the prestigious QSWUR. and a strong and expanding network of Prof Hayne said Curtin’s sustained climb industry relationships in Malaysia has also since 2006 is underpinned by its commit- strengthened our academic reputation and ment to excellence in research, teaching and strategic partnerships.” impactful industry engagement. The QSWUR results are released by global It also highlights the importance of higher education analysts QS Quacquarelli Curtin’s international footprint in Malaysia, Symonds. Singapore, Dubai and Mauritius. For more information on the QS World He added, “It’s extremely encouraging to University Rankings, log on to https://www. see Curtin making significant strides in these topuniversities.com/qs-world-university- global rankings and we can be especially rankings while for more information on the proud of our research impact results – which QS Stars, visit https://www.topuniversities. now place us well within the world’s top one com/qs-stars percent of universities. “Both our QS Five Stars Plus rating and QS ■ For details on Curtin Malaysia, visit World Ranking results are clear indicators of curtin.edu.my, or look for Curtin Malaysia Curtin’s ability to harness our strengths as a on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, global and innovative institution.” or LinkedIn. 8 Education Guide THE STAR, THURSDAY 1 JULY 2021 Top-notch varsity with all-star rating

MANAGEMENT and Science the globe were ranked in QS World University (MSU) has emerged University Rankings 2022. the sole recipient of a full all-star In the recent QS WUR by Subject rating among Malaysian universi- 2021, MSU has emerged Malaysia ties ranked in the QS World No.1 for Subject’s Art and Design University Rankings 2022. category, at the World Top 151-200 Rated 5 QS Stars in nine catego- list. QS WUR by Subject 2021 also ries, MSU scores highly overall places MSU at World Top 51-100 as well as individually across and Top 2 among Malaysia’s Teaching, Graduate Employability, institutions of higher education MSU has emerged the sole recipient of a full all-star rating among Malaysian universities ranked in the QS Academic Development, offering Hospitality and Leisure World University Rankings 2022. Internationalisation, Online Management programmes. Learning, Social Responsibility, Another new entrant securing a Inclusiveness, and Hospitality and QS world ranking is Business and education and training (TVET) with bility through global exposures by School of Graduate Studies, Leisure Management. Management Studies, placing MSU traditional academic curricula, studies and internships abroad. Graduate School of Management Overall, these categories were at Malaysia Top 11 and World Top MSU enhances competencies with Among the best in the region, and Centre for Fundamental divided into core criteria, specialist 451-500. industry internship, community the university’s programmes of Studies. criteria, learning environment and and creative entrepreneurship, as study are meticulously crafted advanced criteria. Prioritising student well as global exposure; empower- to enhance graduate potential, Wide range of programmes MSU received its first QS World development ing MSU graduates with the producing graduates that are a In all, as an applied, enterprise, University Ratings in 2017 and As a top university in Malaysia well-roundedness desired and popular pick among employers. holistic and international universi- rated 5 QS Stars in five categories – and the country’s best teaching and sought after by employers. MSU houses the Faculty of ty, MSU offers foundation, under- Teaching, Graduate Employability, learning university, MSU prioritises Health and Life Sciences, Faculty graduate, postgraduate and flexible Facilities, Social Responsibility and student development to enhance Enhancing graduate of Business Management and programmes through an entry Inclusiveness. graduate employability. employability Professional Studies, Faculty system that facilitates admission MSU remains a Malaysia Top 10 Its highly qualified academics Extensive partnerships and of Information Sciences and of students from all walks of life, University in the QS World and international visiting profes- collaborations with institutions Engineering, the International aimed at “Transforming Lives and University Rankings 2022; placing sors support a holistic curricular in over 40 countries worldwide Medical School, School of Enriching Future”. in the 601-650 bracket among the framework that delivers compel- provide comprehensive mobility Pharmacy, School of Education world’s top global universities. ling learning experiences. opportunities for all MSU students, and Social Sciences, School of ■ For details, look out for the Over 1,300 universities across Blending technical vocational enhancing their graduate employa- Hospitality and Creative Arts, advertisement in this StarSpecial.