THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 HIGHER EDUCATION
Opportunities aplenty
Explore a wide range of tertiary study options to determine your future. 2 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021
MSU’s graduating class of 2021 at the university’s 27th convocation ceremony. Becoming a pharmacist
AFTER a doctor issues a prescription, it is the pharmacist’s job to fill it. This action may seem simple and straightforward, but it requires extensive knowledge of drug dosages, regulations, allergens and chemical reactions for the persons to whom the medicines have been prescribed. Working together with patients, doctors and scientists alike, pharmacists shoulder a great responsibility in ensuring safe pharmacological practices. Such responsibility comes with years of education in pharmaceutical knowledge and skills. Though various paths lead to a career as a pharmacist, all require a readiness to work hard, completion of clinical hours and passing of numerous exams. A solid foundation in maths and the sciences (biology, chemistry, and physics) will prepare aspiring students well for further and more advanced pursuits in the field. School-leavers who are keen on enrolling in Management and Science University’s (MSU) Diploma in Pharmacy programme should have a MSU’s School of Pharmacy alumna of Bachelor of pass in Mathematics and one Science Science in Pharmaceuticals Technology (Hons), subject (preferably Biology) at the Sijil Sharifah Sabrina Al Bokhari Syed Yusuf Al Bokhari Pelajaran Malaysia level. received the Industrial Award from NAZ Medical Good written and verbal communica- Supplies Sdn Bhd. tion skills are also essential – co-curricu- lar involvement in community engagements through their research on reliable, accessible and healthcare can help develop these skills. and effective treatments. For MSU’s Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) To be considered for MSU’s Bachelor of programme, a 3.5 CGPA is required for entry Science in Pharmaceutical Technology via a Diploma in Pharmacy qualification. (Honours) programme, applicants must have Applicants with a Diploma in Science, be it scored a 2.50 CGPA for a diploma in a related Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, must have a field. Alternatively, a C in Chemistry and CGPA score of at least 3.75. Biology or Physics is accepted at the STPM, Entry into the pharmacy degree GCE Advanced Level, Matriculation, Pre- programme at MSU requires at least a B University, or Foundation level; as well as in Chemistry at the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan credit in five subjects at the SPM level, Malaysia (STPM) level or its GCE Advanced including any three from Biology, Chemistry, Level equivalent, as well as both SPM and Physics, Mathematics and English. Matriculation/ Pre-Pharmacy/Pre-Medicine / As a top university in Malaysia, MSU prior- one-year Foundation in Science if the appli- itises student development to enhance grad- cant has a pre-university qualification or its uate employability. So far, 98.7% of its gradu- equivalent. ates have successfully secured employment Career-wise, there seems to be more within six months of graduation, leading to pharmacists working in drugstores or MSU’s ranking by the Ministry of Higher apothecaries than in hospitals, with an Education as Malaysia’s No.1 for graduate estimated two to one ratio between them. employability. A small percentage of them work in the Blending technical vocational education food and beverage industry, and a smaller and training with traditional academic cur- number in general merchandise stores. ricula, MSU enhances competencies with The pharmacist’s responsibilities in these industry internships, community and crea- settings include safe dispersal of medication, tive entrepreneurship, as well as global ensuring non-interference with a patient’s exposure, empowering MSU graduates with allergies or other medicines and educating the well-roundedness sought by employers. the patient on medication. As a hospital Various skills enhancement programmes pharmacist, he or she also dispenses advice aimed at improving students’ competitive- on medication options. ness are also offered. The Graduate Whilst pharmacists may be actively Employability Skills (GEmS) and Personal involved with people’s health and well-being, Enrichment Competencies programme at pharmaceutical scientists are the ones MSU serves to improve students’ soft skills. actively improving human health. These experts in the chemistry, biology ■ For more details regarding the courses and biotechnology behind the design and offered at MSU, contact the Engagement and development of modern medicines bring Enrolment Department at 03-5521 6868 or safe and effective products to the market log on to www.msu.edu.my THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Higher Education 3 Get ready Helping hand for students to conduct
THE unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic has High-achieving students can benefit from unleashed an adverse financial impact on the TAR UC Merit Scholarship, which auto- research many Malaysians. Scores of school-leavers matically awards a partial to full waiver of now face uncertainty over their higher edu- tuition fees based on academic merit. YOU have an assignment to work on, and cation plans given their parents’ financial Since 1997, 26,366 students have had been you’ll have to do some research to get start- constraints. awarded the merit scholarship amounting to ed. So, where do you kick off? Realising the gravity of this situation, approximately RM138mil. Throwing a couple of keywords in Google Tunku Abdul Rahman University College TAR UC also offers financial incentives is where most people start and although it (TAR UC) offers various kinds of financial such as the sibling discount. Students regis- may yield something juicy, leaving that as aid for students. tering for the first time with sibling(s) who your only resource is limiting. To make the TAR UC’s Prihatin Flexi Payment Plan are full-fee-paying student(s) in the same most of your research, try these steps. was introduced this year to provide greater semester may be eligible for a discount of flexibility in the first semester fees payment. RM1,000 off their first semester tuition fee. List down what you need Students only need to make an initial Among the many recipients of TAR UC payment of RM263 to begin their tertiary financial aid is Lee Rong Cherng, a Bachelor The best place to start your list is to look at education. The balance shall be paid by of Quantity Surveying (Hons) student from a the rubric. It will tell you what information instalment up to week five or nine of study, single-parent family. you need, and the marks assigned to each depending on the intake. “My mum was the only breadwinner and will tell you the depth you’ll need to cover. This is offered to students who have besides me, there were two other siblings to received an offer of admission for TAR UC’s look after. Seeing how difficult it was for her, Check the course text foundation, diploma and bachelor degree I took up a part-time job while studying but programmes for the May/June/September/ then my mum passed away. If you have one, this should lay out the November intakes. “When the TAR UC-Jinbodhi Bursary came parameters of your research. Make a list Foundation students of the May/ along, I felt that I had been given a second of the references and chase these down. September intakes have the flexibility to pay The financial aid provided by TAR UC chance in life,” he shared. Having read the original work will give you all semester fees in instalments as they are enabled Lee to pursue his studies. Application for the May/June/September/ good leads to more resources. not eligible for PTPTN. November intakes is now open. Underprivileged students can also obtain bursaries available for qualified students, Check the library financial assistance via the TAR UC Student including The Star Education Fund, Sin Chew ■ For more details about the financial aid Loan Fund. To date, there are 42 interest-free Daily Education Fund, Nanyang Tertiary and programmes offered at TAR UC, log on Look for textbooks and journals. If your revolving student loan funds for qualified Education Fund, TAR UC – TAA Scholarship, to www.tarc.edu.my university has an online database, check for students covering the entirety of the recipi- TAR UC – TAA Scholarship (Top Glove), Prospective students are also encouraged academic and conference papers. ent’s tuition fees. TAR UC Jinbodhi Bursary, TAR UC Sports to apply online at www.tarc.edu.my. Those Since its inception in 1979, a total of Scholarship and Bursary for State/National who submit their applications online by Check Google Scholar 13,293 loan awards amounting to nearly Players. April 30 will receive a RM60 waiver of the RM43mil have been disbursed through the There are also many other external processing fee. Alternatively, visit the Virtual The website http://scholar.google.com TAR UC Student Loan Fund. scholarships and grants by corporations Open Day happening every weekend from specialises in academic information, so Apart from this, there are scholarships/ and philanthropic organisations. now to April 25 (10am to 5pm). throw your keywords in here. 4 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021
UOW Malaysia KDU’s campus in Batu Kawan, Penang, is the newest in the UOW Malaysia Located in Glenmarie, Selangor, UOW Malaysia KDU is equipped with state-of-art, KDU network. industry- grade facilities.
THE largest vaccination campaign in global history has begun in ear- nest. Close to 500 million Covid-19 shots have been administered since Gearing up to study abroad December in 133 countries, accord- ing to Bloomberg’s global tracker. Though the worldwide average of 11 million vaccinations a day Observing students’ eagerness to their efforts with an additional now is still deemed slow, health- pursue an international study expe- degree certificate,” said Prof Imrie. care experts expect the rate to rience, UOW is using its global net- Graduates will get a degree cer- grow exponentially as logistics work of campuses in Dubai, Hong tificate from UOW Malaysia KDU improve and more vaccines pass Kong and Malaysia to enable stu- and another from UOW Australia. the gauntlet of clinical trials. dents to commence their universi- Under this programme, students This matters most for youth ty-level studies within these inter- Students can spend the first one and a half who are eager to commence their national campuses before seamless- complete their years of the Business Management overseas study experience. Seeing ly proceeding to earn a bachelor Dual Award or Computer Science/Software the need for youth to receive degree at a top 200 globally ranked Programmes Engineering bachelor’s degree world-class education even as Australian public university. uninterrupted as programme in UOW Malaysia KDU international travel remains heavi- Studying in Australia has taken the pandemic before heading to Wollongong for ly restricted, an Australian public on a special attraction because of comes to an their remaining one and a half university ranked in the top one how the country has managed the end. years of study. per cent globally has harnessed its pandemic. Since January, Australia “As UOW Malaysia KDU is part worldwide network of campuses to has experienced a low incidence of of the University of Wollongong cater to the new normal – The Covid-19, usually recording new Malaysian students to be ready for place at UOW Australia. In both Australia Global Network, the qual- University of Wollongong (UOW). daily cases in the single digits. when borders reopen. cases, they will be granted a ity of the syllabus at UOW Malaysia It is named after its home city, “With vaccination efforts in School-leavers who join UOW minimum 25% tuition fee waiver KDU is tightly monitored by UOW which locals affectionately call “The Malaysia stepping up, we expect Malaysia KDU for their foundation or a 30% merit scholarship for Australia to ensure a seamless tran- Gong”. This is the third largest city both countries to be able to studies will receive a conditional their UOW bachelor’s degree sition,” Prof Imrie assured. in New South Wales after Sydney establish travel arrangements offer, guaranteeing them programme. “Despite the obstacles, we are (just an hour’s drive away) and for Malaysian students to head to placement in UOW Australia. Should travel restrictions remain confident that Malaysia is on track Newcastle. Wollongong is home to Australia soon. “They are guaranteed a spot in stringent after students complete to tackle the spread of infections about 37,000 UOW students. “In the meantime, students can UOW Australia when they meet the their foundation or diploma and it is time for students to take A major appeal of UOW commence their studies at UOW very achievable minimum CGPA programme, another pathway the first steps in pursuing their among international students is Malaysia KDU and then transfer requirements upon completion will help them stay on course. international study dreams.” the privilege of being immersed seamlessly to UOW Australia when of their foundation year here,” “Our UOW Dual Award Prog- in Australian culture while it is safe to do so,” said deputy explained Prof Imrie. rammes ensure that not only will ■ To speak with UOW Malaysia pursuing top-notch studies in a vice-chancellor (engagement) The same honour is accorded to they be able to continue their over- KDU’s education counsellors about public university without the Associate Professor Dr Brian Imrie. UOW Malaysia KDU students who seas education uninterrupted as the Dual Award Programme, call higher cost of living associated He said UOW Malaysia KDU pick the diploma pathway; they too the pandemic comes to an end, but 03-5565 0538 (Glenmarie, Shah with Australia’s larger cities. provides a number of pathways for gain conditional acceptance of a they will also be recognised for Alam) or 04-238 6368 (Penang). Making the How to be more focused
DO you have that awful sense of good if you’re so overloaded with most out of “Where did the time go?” in the commitments that you’re imping- middle of a semester? ing on your study time. Organising your time is impor- Take a look at your non-essential college tant but before you get there, it’s activities and be ruthless about worth checking out if you are unin- cutting out time eaters that don’t PASSING the course you’ve signed tentionally sabotaging your pro- contribute positively to your learn- up for is one thing. However, there ductivity. ing goals. are other life lessons you can learn Here are some common ways we while at college. Here’s how to can become distracted from our Not setting your study scene make the most of them. study goals. To get good work done, you need Making new friends Being overly concerned to have a quiet space with all the resources you need and enough You’ve spent all those years at about small matters time to really get into what you’re school with the same crowd and The college years are the best time to expand your social circle and It’s nice to do well on everything doing. now you have time to expand your interests. but if you are limited in time, it If you’re trying to get things social circle. Living with others makes more sense to put the most done in the coffee shop, you’ll be If you’re shy, you may be tempt- – something that your first effort into the assignments that distracted by friends, noise and ed to stick to the people from your employer will love. If you study close to home, this carry the most weight in terms of other factors. old school, your home neighbour- won’t be very easy but do try to marks. So create your workspace, gather hood or even just the one person Money management stay at least one semester with Work out at the beginning of the the tools you need, switch off your you sit next to on your first lecture other students. semester what you need to do and phone and make studying a natu- day. Don’t. How far you progress with this Living with others teaches you how much each piece of work rally productive activity. This is the time to reach out and depends on whether you live at tolerance, negotiation, patience counts towards your end grade. meet people from all over the home during college years or and communication. It is important to focus your best Not getting enough rest country – and possibly other coun- whether you take your own flat If you’re unlucky and have energy on the things that really tries. and do your own cooking. dreadful housemates, you’ll also matter. Sleep deprivation is torture. Join clubs and rotate where you It may be sensible the first year learn important conflict survival After a day without it, you become sit in class so you meet other stu- to live in accommodation where and resolution skills. Taking on too many extra clumsy and can’t make rational dents. If you meet lots of people, food is provided so you can con- It doesn’t sound good, perhaps, decisions; after a couple of days, you’ll be improving important soft centrate on your studies. however, learning this at college curricular activities you’ll begin to hallucinate. skills. By the end of college you’ll But if you can, move to your own rather than in your first job when While it’s definitely vital to have You need a good night’s sleep be able to communicate better, and place after so you learn to shop, it is part of your record is truly fun and learn soft skills from activ- every night to keep your brain you’ll have cross-cultural skills too cook and pay the bills. worth it. ities like the debate team, it’s not buzzing along efficiently. THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Higher Education 5 How to get Engineering accreditation through a
STAFF of the Faculty of Engineering and Science of Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin difficult course Malaysia), as well as participants from other universities and industry recently attended DO you have days when you wonder why on a one-day webinar on “Engineering earth you ever decided to sign up for a Accreditation Principles and Requirements” course? When times are tough, there are sev- hosted by the faculty. It was aimed at updat- eral things you can do to help you through. ing the latest Engineering Accreditation First, try and build a vision of what it will Council (EAC) standards introduced in 2020. be like when you complete your studies. During the webinar, Ir Dr Siti Hawa For example, work out what it will be like Hamzah and Ir Dr Liew Chia Pao – the direc- to finally get that job as a doctor and heal tor and associate director respectively of the people, or as an architect and design houses Engineering Accreditation Department of the that people love to live in. Whatever you’re EAC – presented the criteria for accreditation looking forward to, the feel-good factor of of engineering degree programmes and the that image will then help energise you. major changes in the latest EAC standards. Second, instead of looking at the difficulties, The EAC is delegated by the Board of think about your strengths. You’ve made it Engineers Malaysia (BEM) as the only recog- this far, so you should have plenty on your nised accrediting body for engineering side. Maybe you’re good at seeing the big pic- degree programmes offered in Malaysia; it Participants of the ‘Engineering Accreditation Principles and Requirements’ webinar. ture or industrious about chasing little details. currently accredits 190 programmes at 26 Third, talk with a fellow student. As long institutions of higher learning nationwide. Prof Vu Tuong Thuy, dean of the Faculty of registration,” said Prof Vu. as you keep it short and don’t make it a con- The EAC is also instrumental in ensuring Engineering and Science, said Curtin Malay- Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering stant thing that has you depressed all the that Malaysia’s accredited engineering prog- sia has undergone numerous accreditations and Science offers programmes in chemical, time, a bit of a whimper can help you unload rammes are substantially equivalent to the by the EAC through the years and all the civil and construction, electrical and elec- all the stress. Have a lovely cup of hot engineering degrees of other signatories of engineering programmes it offers have the tronic, environmental, mechanical and chocolate or an ice cream while doing this. the Washington Accord, which establishes advantage of being double-accredited by the petroleum engineering, as well related Fourth, go out, have some fun and forget and benchmarks the standard for profes- EAC and Engineers Australia, the accredita- applied sciences such as applied geology, about work for 24 hours. If you’re burned sional engineering education across the 20 tion authority for tertiary engineering educa- health, safety and environment and con- out from working too hard, your brain slows signatory countries. tion in Australia. struction management. It also offers down and it becomes very difficult to get The EAC administration has been strength- “Accreditation provides assurance to programmes in computing (software anything useful done. ened with the setting up of the Engineering potential employers and the public at large engineering and cyber security) and Recharge, re-energise and give yourself a Accreditation Department, which is support- on the quality of the graduates and pro- computer systems and networking. bit of time. When you do hit the books again, ed by several active committees addressing grammes. As all graduate engineers must you’ll be all rested and efficient. a variety of issues, including training, the register with the BEM to practise engineer- ■ For more details, visit curtin.edu.my or Above all, remember all the other times accreditation management system, strategic ing in Malaysia, having an EAC-accredited look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, you thought you’d never make it and you planning and finance. engineering degree is the prerequisite for Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or LinkedIn. did. You can do it. 6 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Exploring early childhood education
CONVERSATIONS about the needs and trends, SEGi is importance of early childhood offering the Diploma in Early care and education (ECCE) have Childhood Education (DECE) been circulating for quite some programme in two different time. Even educators and par- ways – a conventional mode and ents have become active partici- an online mode to cater to the SEGi is known as a pioneer and trusted provider of ECCE programmes. pants in these discussions as various needs of current they search for the best educa- teachers, including in-service tional opportunities for the new teachers who have tight working generation, including those with schedules. special needs. The DECE programme offers flexibility as it is conducted Catering to special needs on weekends via online platforms. students SEGi is also offering a As the current trend of Bachelor of Education (Hons) improving access to education across four majors: for children with special needs 1) Early childhood education has provided better awareness (ECE) of the importance of early child- 2) Special needs education hood care and education (ECCE), (SNE) special needs education (SNE) is 3) Teaching English as a now more in demand. second language (TESL) This awareness has resulted in 4) Guidance and counselling more inclusive education for stu- This degree programme is for dents with special needs, giving teachers who wish to further every child an opportunity to their studies after obtaining a receive individualised services at diploma. their local schools accompanied It is essential that teachers by learning approaches that pro- equip themselves with both vide enough support for them to ECCE and SNE skills if they are reach their full potential. going to work with children with Adopting the Zero Reject special needs, as they will then Policy, which states that no child have the knowledge to give the should be rejected from a school, best teaching support and is a significant step forward. accommodation to address the Under this policy, children with educational needs of these chil- special needs and undocument- dren. ed children can gain access to This is because in certain education and receive proper learning disabilities, children care. only start exhibiting symptoms With this effort to support at the age of three or four, and inclusivity in the classroom, experienced ECCE teachers there is now strong demand for will be able to identify these teachers who are trained in symptoms. special needs education. A major focus in inclusive Pioneer of ECCE special education is to effectively educate as many children as programmes possible in mainstream schools. SEGi is known as a pioneer In order to achieve this, it is and a trusted provider of early essential that mainstream childhood care and educational schoolteachers have sufficient programmes. Since 1988, they knowledge regarding the differ- have produced thousands of ent types of students considered highly qualified early childhood to be Students with Special caregivers and educators. Educational Needs (SEN) and the SEGi was appointed as a practical teaching strategies champion for ECCE training by needed to teach them effectively Pemandu in 2010, for the in mainstream classrooms. National Key Economic Area All these proactive initiatives Entry Point Project 2. are to meet the Malaysian SEGi also received the first Education Blueprint’s target of batch of sponsored students 75% of children with special from the Education Ministry, needs in inclusive education who went on to pursue their programmes by 2025. Bachelor of Education (Hons) Moreover, the government TESL Primary Education prog- has specified that ECCE teachers rammes at SEGi. should possess at least a diploma In fact, an alumna with both qualification to raise the stand- bachelor and master degrees is ards of ECCE in Malaysia. now currently a respected lec- This has encouraged many turer in SEGi. experienced teachers who have yet to attain a diploma in early ■ For further information on childhood education to pursue SEGi’s ECCE programme, call one. 03-6145 1777 or WhatsApp 011-1210 6389 to get in touch Flexible study options with SEGi’s counsellors. Alternatively, log on to To address these current www.segi.edu.my THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Higher Education 7 Become Honouring research online the best in THE 11th Malaysian e-Symposium of Biomedical Science (Mysymbios), your field a national-level undergraduate symposium, took place on March 6 and 7 via Zoom. This year, the WHEN you choose a career path, International Medical University do you look to becoming the best in (IMU) was conferred the honour of your field? If so, here are some hosting the annual symposium useful ideas to help you on your with the aim of providing a plat- journey. form for final-year students, First, read a book by an expert researchers and intellectual figures on what it takes to be successful. in biomedical science across There are many self-help books Malaysia to present their research. and biographies for you to read so Despite a hiatus in 2020 due to if you want to become a pilot, law- the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s yer or photographer, pick up a event was a novel and exciting book by a professional that discuss- experience for many. es how they did it. The highly successful event con- Thiviya giving a speech during the 11th Mysymbiosus as she is the chairperson of the organising committee They may not live in the same gregated more than 400 biomedical consisting of 32 IMU Biomedical Science undergraduates from various cohorts. environment, but you can learn to science undergraduate students avoid common errors and see what and faculty from 17 private and health science research and diag- Presentation, Non-Communicable IMU, or select a credit transfer really matters. public universities across Malaysia. nostics worldwide. Disease Category) track to complete their studies at Second, be prepared to work Participation was also extended A student-driven programme, the • Ooi Li Ting (BM118), second one of three partner universities – hard. If it were easy to be good at to graduates so they could share organising committee consisted of prize (Poster Presentation, Wet-Lab University of Newcastle (Australia), something, everyone would be a their research findings due to the 32 IMU Biomedical Science under- Category) University of Otago (New Zealand), genius. As the American inventor postponement of the event last graduates led by chairperson The IMU BSc (Hons) in Bio- or the University of Strathclyde Thomas Edison said, “Genius is one year. To accommodate the diverse Thiviya. Biomedical Science Faculty medical Science is a three-year (Scotland). per cent inspiration, 99% perspira- nature of biomedical research, the from participating universities, programme and one of the few in The next commencement dates tion.” scope of participation ranged from including UM, UPM, UKM, USM, Malaysia accredited by the IBMS, are in July and September. If you This means that your education hands-on laboratory-based studies UCSI, UTAR and Taylor’s University the leading professional body for have pre-university qualifications should come first. Plan to study to bioinformatics, meta-analyses were invited to judge the 40 oral scientists and students in the field and have an interest in biomedical between lectures, and don’t expect and systematic reviews. and 30 poster presentations. of biomedical science globally. science, apply online now. a constant stream of holidays and Biomedical science is a constant- Outstanding presenters received a Having completed a curriculum If you have just completed your long weekends. Those come when ly evolving field that is rife with certificate of achievement and cash mapped to international standards, SPM and do not have pre-universi- you’ve hit the top. rapid developments and new dis- prizes of up to RM300. all graduates with an IBMS- ty qualification, consider enrolling Third, when you’re learning, you coveries. As such, the theme for the Winners of the individual cate- accredited degree can apply for in the one-year IMU Foundation in might focus just on the goal but as 2021 symposium of “Honouring the gories included the following awar- registration as a biomedical scien- Science, the direct route for entry with most complex tasks, it’s a Past, Treasuring the Present, dees from IMU: tist with the Health and Care into any of the university’s local process. If you learn to analyse the Shaping the Future” was apt. • Nur Adania Shaibie (BM117), Professions Council in the UK upon degree programmes. process, and recognise the separate The gathering of minds provid- first prize (Oral Presentation, completing the IBMS Certificate of parts, then you can find ways to ed an opportunity for researchers Oncology Category) Competence training portfolio. ■ For more details, visit www.imu. improve speed and quality. to reflect upon past achievements • Pravin Kumran Nyanasegran Students may choose to obtain a edu.my or email [email protected] This will make learning more and discuss emerging advances in (BM117), second prize (Oral biomedical science degree at the or call IMU at 03-2731 7272. efficient – and less of a strain. 8 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Skills for a fast-paced era
GRADUATES are a vital part of a country’s “upskilling” are frequently read and heard There are two interesting and challenging university and into their workforce. They are part of the core of inno- in mass media. They are sometimes used foundation courses offered at the HELP vation that contributes to the well-being of interchangeably. Previously, the terms were Matriculation Centre (HMC). The Foundation the economy. The Fourth Industrial applicable to the industrial sector, where in Arts is specifically tailored for students Revolution (IR4.0) is expected to change how upskilling primarily focuses on helping who have successfully completed the SPM/ we live, work and communicate. It is also employees become more skilled and relevant O-Level examinations. likely to change the things we value and the in their current position. On the other hand, The aim of the course is to equip students way we value them in the future. Presently, reskilling focuses on making employees with the qualifications required for entry we can already see changing business mod- capable of taking on different jobs within into tertiary institutions to pursue academic els and employment trends. an organisation. disciplines such as business, economics, law, So, what does this mean for students In this fast-changing world, there is a psychology, mass communication and other today? In a World Economic Forum report, strong need to prepare students to face the arts-related courses. the 10 skills students would need for IR4.0 challenging future. To help students make Similarly, the Foundation in Science include complex problem-solving, critical the correct choice, HELP University has enables students to obtain a strong science thinking, creativity, people management, designed a concise one-year Foundation background before embarking on disciplines coordinating with others, emotional intelli- programme with a broad range of teaching such as engineering, pharmacy, medicine ‘Foundation students balance rigorous gence, judgement and decision making, goals and aspirations for students’ learning and actuarial science. academic study with co-curricular service orientation, negotiation and cognitive that extend well beyond academic learning Students enrolling in the Foundation in opportunities in sports, the arts, community flexibility. and into the fields of social and emotional Arts or Foundation in Science are required service and leadership,’ says Dhanesh. Moreover, the terms “reskilling” and well-being. to successfully complete a wide range of core and elective subjects. The core subjects professional life.” such as English, Mathematics, and Critical Dhanesh added that currently, online class Thinking prepare them for their undergrad- sizes ensure that students participate active- uate study. ly in the learning process, receive numerous The electives offered vary and provide stu- opportunities to demonstrate their learning dents with the opportunity to experiment by and gain invaluable feedback on their work. studying different subjects in various disci- “Experienced lecturers look to engage, plines at the foundation level before embark- motivate and push the students by utilising ing on the most suitable discipline based on digital tools to help them lock down their their individual strengths and interests. understanding of key concepts and reach According to the Faculty of University their academic potential. Foundation Studies dean Dhanesh “Students are also encouraged to balance Balakrishnan, this is critical in enabling the rigorous academic demands with numer- students to make a more informed choice. ous co-curricular opportunities in sports, the Dhanesh strongly feels that students arts, community service and leadership.” should take their time to choose the right HELP Foundation students hold fast to the profession. motto “Non Nobis Solum” (Not for Ourselves “In current times, both reskilling and Alone) to heart. Students are encouraged to upskilling have become important in the embrace the values of citizenship, leadership higher education sector. Students today live and service as they prepare to take their in the IR4.0 era which pushes for advance- place in the global community. ments in artificial intelligence and automa- The Foundation Programme at the HELP tion, which revolutionises and disrupts Faculty of Foundation Studies is an interna- well-established roles and professions at an tionally recognised foundation as it is accept- unprecedented level. ed as an entry qualification to prestigious “As a Premier Digital Tech Institution, universities in Australia, the United HELP’s Foundation Programme not only Kingdom, New Zealand and many other provides sound preparation for university countries. admittance, but also fosters characteristics of an analytical mindset, personal ■ For more information, call 03-2716 2000, responsibility, perseverance and leadership email [email protected] or visit that will serve the students throughout www.help.edu.my Choosing the right career path
WHEN you’re choosing a basic degree, you have a career path in mind. When you do this, are you looking at starting salaries and the first few jobs you take, or are you thinking about what you think you will want when you’re 30, 40 and 50 years old? Weigh your choices carefully Some people have a driving passion that’s lifelong. For example, a person who adores the law will be diving in and out of the theories of justice and courts all their lives and they will be happy. But supposing you just work to earn a living. In that case, what do you want to happen to your career if you plan to have kids? Start up your own business? Or do you want to retire early? Look ahead When you choose a basic degree, it’s useful to look way beyond the first few years after you have graduated. When choosing a basic degree, it’s useful The question to ask is not just “What makes me happy now?” but “What do I to look beyond the first few years after you think will make me happy when I’m have graduated. older?” Then ask, “will this degree allow me to do this? If it doesn’t, how difficult can take. There may be an entrepreneur unit would it be for me to retrain?” in case you want to go it alone or language unit in case you want to travel. Explore your study options Ask questions In the past it was common for people to have a single career path but nowadays, Make a list of what you want and ask the many of us have two or even three changes lecturers, graduates and experienced indus- of course. try leaders what they think. It also helps to As such, many universities offer degrees read job advertisements. Explore and use that have wriggle room. What you need to what you find to make the decisions that suit look at is the types of specialised units you you best. THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Higher Education 9 Drones as the new flying IoT
DRONES have become increasingly further,” Dr Lim said. popular. Created initially as Its IoT and UAV researchers, led remotely guided aerial missile by Dr Lim, have been actively deployers for the military, these working on the different proof of unmanned aerial vehicles now concept and further development have a much wider range of appli- of IoT and drone technology for cations. four years. Equipped with high-quality cam- The research has created hope eras, they are able to capture for providing a safe environment, incredible aerial view photos of especially in areas where drones landscapes and are revolutionising may fly within the vicinity without the way films are made. passerby knowledge. Not only have they become a Drones are gaining momentum, tool for filmmakers, but they are especially in this era where deliv- also used to deliver goods, monitor ery, monitoring and surveillance climate change and aid in search are autonomously carried out. In and rescue missions. this context, DroGatLight is useful A person can easily control these for UAV traffic monitoring and miniature pilotless aircraft from controlling, even as a security the ground or via a computer prog- system for homes. ramme to reach remote areas with DroGatLight won a gold medal minimum effort and time. at the 31st International Invention, Drone technology has flourished Innovation and Technology in the last few years and is often Dr Lim says DroGatLight costs Exhibition 2020, Malaysia, and used in the form of small quad- DroGatLight can detect objects with frequency using existing street light, considerably less than other has a patent pending with three copters and octocopters. Being IoT systems, computer vision and mobile apps. existing technologies to date. copyrights. small in size but high in speed The Economic Research Institute gives drones the advantage over also being looked upon as an lecturer Dr Joanne Lim Mun Yee street light, IoT systems, computer for Asean and East Asia’s statement helicopters and small aeroplanes invasion of privacy. and her team are focused on vision and mobile apps. on the Asean 2040 vision mentions to perform remarkably without With Beyond Visual Line of creating a power gating technology DroGatLight is at its final lab that digital transformation and the need to engage pilots to fly Sight being an important feature for Internet of Things (IoT) devices scale with system prototype Industry 4.0 offer many opportuni- them. in the drone industry, drones are capable of tracking drones and demonstration in an operational ties to improve resource manage- Unfortunately, remarkable crea- able to fly beyond the normal other devices with frequency environment. ment through drones, remote sens- tions do come with issues. Imagine visual range without human signals within a designated area. According to Dr Lim, the IoT ing and artificial intelligence that seeing a drone hover near your interference. Dr Lim and undergraduate stu- technology also comes at a consid- allow better monitoring of resourc- window or while you are lounging Though they are mostly used to dents Tay Liang Yu, Lim Teik Aun, erably lower cost than other exist- es with the use of remote sensing, by the poolside. track large tracts of farmland, a lot Soh Owen and Kok Yuan Ting have ing technologies to date. ICT and big data analytics, which A kid may be testing out his of companies are embracing this invented a drone tracking system “We are currently working on is in line with the invention of newly purchased drone making technique for more reliable drone using the IoT Streetlight with further development towards DroGatLight. the scenario harmless. But with functioning, making it crucial to computer vision known as object tracking, with low power issues such as remote monitoring track these drones. DroGatLight. usage and comprehensive ■ For more information, look and surveillance becoming more With this in mind, Monash DroGatLight can detect objects signal coverage to enhance out for the advertisement in this common these days, drones are University School of Engineering with frequency using existing the capabilities of DroGatLight StarSpecial. 10 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021
A 400-seater recital hall complete with recording facilities. Two concert grand pianos (Steinway-D and Fazioli F308) are available in the recital hall. Raising the bar in music education
UCSI University’s Institute of Music (IMus) “Over the past three decades, IMus has has achieved another milestone as it is now been producing graduates for the industry. ranked in the Top 50 in the world and was Some of our students were also able to enter named Malaysia’s best music school in the prestigious conservatories or top music performing arts category by the QS World schools globally with a full scholarship. University Rankings by Subject 2021. Some of them are even full professors work- This achievement came right after the ing in renowned universities today. institute was ranked in the Top 100 in the “I believe we have achieved a lot. world for three consecutive years (2018, Essentially, our mission is not only to be 2019 and 2020) in the same category. a true leader in presenting holistic music Its director Prof Dr P’ng Tean Hwa said education in the region, but to also they were humbled to see how IMus has ensure that the cultural life in Malaysia is been recognised globally. recognised globally,” he remarked. Dr P’ng also said IMus has been consist- When asked about IMus’ future plans, ently focused on raising the standards of its Dr P’ng said it will focus on smaller goals music education. before attempting to attain the larger ones. “I would like to take this recognition as a IMus director Prof Dr P’ng Tean Hwa. “In future, what we are trying to do is to motivation to continue improving our music related to music, I believe we are moving in take one step at a time to ensure that we are education and contributing to the richness of the right direction to reach greater heights,” gratifying,” Dr P’ng remarked. doing things correctly and living up to the Malaysia’s cultures by actively responding to he added. He hopes that IMus will continue to work public’s expectations. Only then will we be current issues or scenarios in terms of our In addition to the staff, Dr P’ng indicated together with industry partners to ensure able to achieve greater heights. curriculum to stay relevant,” he said. that the active participation of students in that its graduates are well equipped with the “Additionally, we aim to introduce more Noting that the realisation of the recogni- competitions organised worldwide was also necessary skills and knowledge. industry-relevant programmes, better facili- tion was a collective effort with industry one of the factors that made IMus stand out He said IMus has a clear vision and ties to develop our students’ potential and partners, Dr P’ng also extended his apprecia- from the rest. mission to be a leading music institute and conduct more community engagement tion to his faculty members, students and “Our students have been actively partici- develop a strong music community that activities to increase the quality and members of the music education community pating in local and international competi- cares for each other, as well as drive the standard of our music education,” he said. that have helped IMus’ endeavour so far. tions. Aside from that, our students are standards of the higher education system to “I am thankful to those who have support- also motivated by goals to realise their true greater heights. ■ For more details, visit www.ucsiuniversity. ed us through sponsorships, continuous potential. “The aim is to create a music community edu.my or contact 03-9101 8882/011-3592 feedback for improvement and project “More importantly, our students are through collaborations with industry 0893. collaborations. With our staff being active in able to secure good careers in the industry partners that will reflect each other’s good The university will be hosting its eOpen conducting research and creative output right after they graduate. This is indeed values. Day and Open Day on April 10-11 and 17-18. Pointers for effective speed-reading
WHEN you need to read a pile of papers very quickly, speed-reading can be a handy skill to have. Speed-reading is where you skim over a text, picking up the essential points. It’s not very useful for learn- ing, although it can help refresh your memory if you’re going over something you’ve studied before. Speed-reading is useful for the following reasons: – To give you a bit of quick insight into a topic. Speed-reading – For seeing what sort of informa- can help refresh tion is where. your memory – For distinguishing between during a revision valuable resources and less valuable session. ones. – For eliminating duplicate sources. dominance in chickens, you can paper. Drag it over the page – and Typically, this is a skill you will skip all the chapters that cover don’t go back. use when getting ready to write an dominance in apes and humans. assignment or to work out your Spot patterns exam notes. Sort into piles If you’re not used to speed- You’re sorting things out, so think reading, this is how you can build Start by sorting into “keep” and of the big picture. Look for key ideas, up this skill: “discard” piles then sort the “keep” bold print and repeated tag-words. into topic or order of importance. Find a peaceful spot Keep calm Don’t reread You need silence or white noise Speed-reading is a skill and a use- because distractions will hamper If you’re learning, you tend to ful tool but it’s just one of the many your concentration. move backwards and forwards in a you will use in learning so if you text to make sure you get it. Speed- don’t immediately get it, just relax Know what you’re looking for reading isn’t about learning so don’t and keep at it. And if after a few tries do this. To help you, cut a three sen- you really loathe it, drop it and find If you want information on tence shaped hole in a piece of a system that works for you. THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Higher Education 11 Making their way to Oxbridge
Vanness Lai Wye Junn, Teoh Khai Yang received Jarell Cheong Tze Wen Natalie Tan Wen Hui was Hor Ye Heng shared that Ethan Sip Zi Cheng For Eng Yi Jun, sitting from Perak, said Sunway a conditional offer to thanked his lecturers comforted by her English the Sunway College’s said Sunway College’s for his A-Level was a College is the go-to study Computer Science at Sunway College Literature lecturer and A-Level provides a extensive resources and natural step after taking higher learning choice at the University of for boosting his mentor’s help when she ‘motivating environment lecturers aided his thirst the IGCSE as he wanted in his hometown. Cambridge. ‘mathematical maturity’. applied to Cambridge. to work hard’. for knowledge. to study in the UK.
DESPITE the Covid-19 pandemic, University of Cambridge. He The programme has also aided Sunway Pre-U LEADS, a academic achievements. Sunway College’s A-Level stu- expressed his gratitude to his students in developing soft skills like co-curricular programme to nurture dents once again achieved a lecturers, describing them as the leadership qualities through partici- students’ holistic development ■ For more information on the pro- 100% passing rate in the “best group of teachers” he ever pation in the Sunway College A-Level for personal growth and success grammes offered at Sunway College, November examination sittings, had. Student Council. by equipping them with log on to college.sunway.edu.my or with a number of them gaining “My experience at Sunway Sunway College is also pioneering necessary life skills beyond their email [email protected]. placement in the University of College – the events, friends and Cambridge and University of lecturers – helped me achieved Oxford, or Oxbridge for short. many goals and I am grateful to At Sunway College, the A-Level all of them,” he said. programme is a golden ticket to Meanwhile, Jarell Cheong Tze top UK universities such as Wen reminisced about a trip he Oxbridge, as well as other pres- took to Sunway College while in tigious international institutions. secondary school and recalled Following in his siblings’ falling in love with its library. footsteps, Vanness Lai Wye Junn After enrolling, Cheong discov- from Taiping, Perak, enrolled in ered Sunway College had the Sunway College, which he best A-Level further mathemat- described as the go-to higher ics faculty in Malaysia. The learning institution in his home- 20-year-old said his lecturers town. boosted his “mathematical matu- “The environment at Sunway rity”. College is different from high His pure mathematics school. People here are more lecturer inspired him to certain of their future and the further pursue mathematics. lecturers have great knowledge “It was the way he explained of their respective field of stud- concepts. I not only understood, ies,” he said. I was curious and wanted to Lai added that his mentor and learn more,” he said, adding physics lecturer, Ng Chee Beng, that he “screamed until I lost shared invaluable knowledge on my voice” upon receiving his future career prospects and the conditional offer to study best universities to apply for, Mathematics at the University and helped perfect his personal of Cambridge. statement to a conditional offer Cheong also represented from the University of Malaysia in the Dancesports Cambridge to study Natural Events in the 2019 SEA Games. Science majoring in Physics. Sharing the same sentiment, For Eng Yi Jun, sitting for his Natalie Tan Wen Hui shared, A-Level was a natural step after “When I read the words completing IGCSE, especially ‘Congratulations’ on my since he had every intention to conditional offer letter, I imme- further his education in the UK. diately screamed and ran to my The budding doctor is still in mother.” disbelief after receiving a She will be reading Law at the conditional offer to read University of Cambridge. Medicine at the University of The application process to Oxford. Cambridge was stressful, but Tan “I am thankful for the help of found comfort in the help she my mentor and biology lecturer received from her English Dr Khor Shy Cian. I still remem- Literature lecturer and ber mentor. her taking time to chat and reas- With a passion for chemistry, sure me when I was worried Ethan Sip Zi Cheng found that about my University Clinical Sunway College’s extensive Aptitude Test,” he said. library, online journal Eng also expressed his grati- collection and lecturers aided his tude to the International Office thirst for knowledge. University Placement at Sunway “The lecturers guided me College for its support and through my doubts even if my advice on his university applica- questions were not in the sylla- tion. bus. They welcome and are open With a burning passion to be to questions,” he said. an electrical engineer, Hor Ye The budding academic, who Heng shared that the A-Level at will be studying Biochemistry at Sunway College provided a the University of Oxford, is cer- “motivating environment to tain that “Sunway College helped work hard”. me realise this was possible”. Hor received a conditional With a knack for preparing offer to pursue Electrical students with their university Engineering at the University of applications, Sunway College Cambridge and received invalu- also provides additional guid- able advice from his mentor and ance and support through chemistry lecturer Chan Hui outreach programmes conduct- Ting and physics lecturer Chan ed in collaboration with Wai Tuck. Cambridge University Malaysia Teoh Khai Yang received a Society (CUMaS) and Oxford conditional offer to study University Malaysia Club Computer Science at the (OUMC). 12 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 8 APRIL 2021 Nurturing doctors of the future
THE medical profession preparing them for the world of emphasises integrity and caring medicine. for people when they are most “For one, NUMed’s academics vulnerable. consist of skilled and trained lec- “The science of medicine is fasci- turers from diverse backgrounds, nating. As a doctor, I’m able to with a number of them seconded advocate evidence-based interven- from the UK campus. tion and impact my patients posi- “Secondly, NUMed uses an inte- tively, which really inspires me,” grated case-led teaching approach As part of its commitment to delivering high-quality medical education, NUMed plays an essential role in shared Dr Edmund L.C. Ong, that focuses on looking at patients shaping doctors of the future and preparing them for the world of medicine. Honorary Professor of Medicine at holistically,” said Dr Ong. Newcastle University Medicine The first two years of the “Rotations include small-group University, UK, is recognised as a Malaysia (NUMed). university’s five-year Bachelor of clinical bedside teaching. world-class, research-intensive uni- Dr Ong has vast experience in Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery Furthermore, to develop the versity. As its fully owned interna- “NUMed’s academics infectious diseases and general (MBBS) programme are focused on students’ specialist knowledge and tional campus, NUMed provides its internal medicine, a field in which key areas such as clinical skills and skills, they are placed in hospitals students with top-notch British-style consist of skilled he has garnered many years of medical sciences as well as ethics and community-based clinics (such education, with the same UK curric- practice in the UK. and professionalism. as the government clinics),” Dr Ong ula and qualifications as what is and trained lecturers He believes that successful While the teaching mainly elaborated. offered at its parent university. from diverse medical students need to be able happens on campus, students are “A career in medicine is a life- NUMed offers a pre-undergradu- to assimilate, understand and already provided with opportuni- long commitment of keeping up-to- ate programme – Foundation in backgrounds, with a apply a wide knowledge base ties for patient contact in hospitals date with relevant knowledge and Biological and Biomedical Sciences within a clinical setting. and community centres. In fact, skills, as well as professionalism. – and two undergraduate pro- number of them “They should be compassionate they can expect a mixture of online You need to be open and honest, grammes: Bachelor of Medicine, and have good communication and and in-person on- and off-campus and act with integrity so that Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and seconded from the organisational skills,” he added. teaching, including laboratories, patients and colleagues are able BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences In its commitment to delivering tutorials and workshops. to maintain trust in you,” said (BMS). UK campus.” high-quality medical education, From Year 3 onwards, students Dr Ong. NUMed plays an essential role in attend various placements across As a founding member of the ■ For more details, look out for the Dr Ong shaping doctors of the future and the state of Johor. Russell Group, Newcastle advertisement in this StarSpecial.