USM DRIVES THE ACADEMIC-INDUSTRY JOINT VENTURE

PENANG, July 11, 2012 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues its commitment to strengthen its network of strategic alliances forged through collaboration with higher education institutions and with the industry.

USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato' Omar Osman, said that the university is leading the collaborative ties linked to knowledge and practice, not just looking at the theoretical aspects as it is often associated with the academia.

He said that the matter was highlighted by the signing of the various memorandums of agreement (MoA) and memorandums of understanding (MoU) that forms the backbone to the process of combining ideas between academia-industry successfully.

He spoke after the signing ceremony of a memorandum of agreement (MoA) between USM and the School of Housing, Building and Planning (PPPBP) with the Universitas Pembangunan Panca Budi (UNPAB), Indonesia, and AK Ventures Berhad, Penang.

Also present were Prof. Ir. Mahyuddin Ramli, the Dean of PPBPP, Saimara Sebayang, the Deputy Reactor of UNPAB, and Captain Ananda Kumar, the Chairman of AK Ventures Limited Penang.

One of the objectives of the MoA with UNPAB was to explore potential research opportunities in areas related to scholars of the right calibre, quality research, and distinguished publications.

It also acts as a catalyst generating research projects and publications, bringing benefits to universities for the good of the nation and the region.

While the MoA with AK Ventures Berhad is witnessing efforts in producing more USM intellectuals with Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), offering places to firms and industrial organisations to get involved.

AK Ventures Berhad through this smart collaboration responded to the challenge to nominate one of its employees to pursue the programme under Supply Chain Management studies in the field of human resource development.

Omar also said that the two efforts under the framework of collaboration are very significant with a view to develop human capital and modernising industrial development.

He said, PPPBP also need to be recognised with a number of achievements gained including academic excellence, publications, research, supervision and consultation.

The MoA signing ceremony was followed by the Excellent Service Award ceremony to honour 63 PPPBP staff who have shown dedication, commitment and quality in carrying out their respective duties during the year 2011.