USM actively supports lifelong learning by organizing a variety of educational events that are open to all members of the community. These events, offered both on an ad-hoc and on a programmed basis,   to engage individuals from diverse backgrounds, whether they are students, professionals, or lifelong learners, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to continue their education. By offering public lectures, workshops, seminars, and online learning platforms, USM fosters an inclusive environment where knowledge can be accessed, shared, and expanded upon, regardless of age, academic background, or professional experience. This commitment to lifelong learning reflects USM’s broader mission of creating a society where education is a continuous journey, available to all who seek it.

Ad-Hoc Educational Events

One example of USM initiatives is via USM Press. USM Press at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is dedicated to promoting lifelong learning through its series of educational and cultural events that are open to the public, in alignment with SDG 4: Quality Education. These initiatives are designed to make learning accessible to all, ensuring that knowledge extends beyond the university walls. One of the prominent events in 2023, The Emdash Show Series (held in August and October 2023), explores significant historical moments, such as "1957: Merdeka dalam Penjajahan". This series provides the public a platform to engage in discussions on Malaysia’s socio-political history, fostering critical thinking and a deeper understanding of national identity.   

Programmed-Basis Educational Events

In addition to history-focused events, USM Press hosts public lectures, offering the general public opportunities to engage in intellectual discourse. In December 2023, notable lectures such as Sesi Republika Merah and Sejarah dalam Dakyah Ideologi Politik dan Media Sosial will feature experts like Dr. Azmi Ariffin and Dr. Nasha Rodziadi Khaw, who will share insights into political history and the influence of media on shaping ideologies. These lectures aim to bridge the gap between academia and the wider community, providing an inclusive space to discuss historical and current social issues, making education widely accessible. 

USM Press also supports literary appreciation through publicly accessible events featuring prominent national literary figures like Dato' Dr. Zurinah Hassan. These sessions highlight the role of literature in preserving cultural heritage and encourage lifelong learning by fostering a love for reading and personal reflection. Events like Kenapa Buku Universiti Tak Laku? bring academics and the public together to address challenges in academic publishing, promoting broader access to knowledge. These 2023 initiatives demonstrate USM's ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for public engagement in intellectual and cultural enrichment, emphasizing education as a continuous, inclusive journey.