PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
Forging Global Horizons: UTM and IGU Seal Historic Collaboration
[Istanbul, Turkiye, 6 October 2023] – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today, solidifying their commitment to academic collaboration and global education initiatives. The signing ceremony at Istanbul Gelisim University marks a significant milestone in fostering international partnerships and advancing higher education.
This collaboration has its roots in the UTM Career Centre, Department of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students Affairs & Alumni), which actively sought opportunities for students and graduates to explore and experience the global avenues. Recognizing the value of international exposure in nurturing well-rounded graduates, both institutions were enthusiastic about working together.
UTM Alumni, Asst. Prof. Dr. Samuel Moveh and Asst. Prof. Dr. Oluwagbemiga Paul Agboola, currently serving as academic at IGU, played a pivotal role in fostering this collaboration. Their warm reception and openness to collaboration between the institutions, especially in joint student supervision and career development, have significantly facilitated this partnership. “The collaboration focuses on collaboration, including exchange programs for students, encompassing internships, research attachments, summer schools, study visits and collaboration on research endeavors, shared funding opportunities, personnel interchange, and coordinating seminars and online workshops. The exchange of insights in research and scientific production endeavor”, said Prof. Dr. Shamsul Sahibuddin, on behalf of the UTM Vice-Chancellor.
Malaysia’s Vision for Global Education
The ceremony was officiated by Prof. Dr Shamsul bin Sahibuddin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs & Alumni) and Professor Dr. Bahri Şahin, Rector of Istanbul University Gelişim and being witnessed by Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, the Minister of Higher Education Malaysia and the Honorable Mr. Abdülkadir Gayretli, IGU Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
UTM and IGU align with the vision the Honourable Dato’ Seri articulated, stating that “the vision includes positioning Malaysia as a central hub for international talents, students, and researchers in higher education, and the collaboration is a tangible step towards realizing this vision”.
Also present were YM Tengku Mohd Dzaraif bin Raja Abdul Kadir, Consulate General of Malaysia-Istanbul, Mr. Abdülkadir Gayretli, IGU Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Assoc Prof Dr Che Rozid Mamat, Director of UTM Career Centre and high management of KPT.
Strength of Istanbul Gelisim University
IGU’s remarkable self-reliance, exemplifying the capability to achieve self-sufficiency through local production, minimizes reliance on external support. This strength positions IGU as an ideal partner for UTM in furthering educational and research initiatives.
UTM’s Success and Recognition
UTM takes immense pride in the recent recognition of Prof. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail, the Vice Chancellor of UTM, who was honored with the prestigious Mustafa Prize in 2023. This award celebrates the outstanding contributions of Muslim scholars and scientists and places Prof. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail among esteemed scholars from Islamic nations.
Conclusion
This Memorandum of Understanding is a testament to the commitment of UTM and IGU to international collaboration and the advancement of higher education. The partnership promises to create opportunities for students, researchers, and faculty members, enriching their academic experiences and contributing to the global knowledge pool. Both institutions are excited about this collaboration’s positive impact on their communities and look forward to a fruitful partnership fostering academic excellence and global cooperation.
For media inquiries, please contact:
[Assoc. Prof. ChM. Dr. Che Rozid bin Mamat]
[Director]
[UTM Career Centre, Johor Bahru]
[cherozid@utm.my]
06 October 2023
Note to Editors: High-resolution images from the signing ceremony and additional information can be provided upon request.
About Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a leading public research university in Malaysia known for its excellence in engineering, science, and technology education. UTM is committed to producing future-ready graduates and conducting cutting-edge research that addresses global challenges.
About Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU)
Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU) is a prominent private university in Turkey with a strong emphasis on self-reliance and innovation. IGU is dedicated to providing high-quality education and fostering an environment conducive to research and academic excellence.