JOHOR BAHRU, Apr 22 — Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), through the Faculty of Educational Sciences and Technology (FEST), has received diplomatic commendation from the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Malaysia for its growing educational partnership with Taraba State University (TSU), Nigeria.

The recognition follows a strategic proposal and invitation submitted to the Nigerian High Commission regarding the ongoing collaboration between TSU and UTM. In an official appreciation letter addressed to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Rustam Mohd Rameli, Manager of External and Global Engagement, FEST, the High Commission, acknowledged the initiative as a meaningful contribution to Nigeria–Malaysia bilateral relations in the education sector. The Commission further expressed optimism that the partnership between TSU and UTM would be strengthened in the coming years and could serve as a reference point for collaboration among universities in both countries.

The letter, signed by Ambassador Danlami Ibrahim, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Nigerian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, also commended five outstanding Nigerian Adjunct Professors at UTM for their voluntary commitment to supporting the Nigerian educational system. Their appointments as Adjunct Professors at TSU are viewed as a recognition of academic excellence, institutional service, and cross-border educational commitment.

The initiative reflects UTM’s continuing role as a globally engaged university committed to knowledge diplomacy, academic mobility, and sustainable international partnerships. It also strengthens the bridge between Malaysian and Nigerian higher education institutions through teaching, research collaboration, curriculum development, mentorship, and capacity-building.
Special appreciation is extended to the Dean of the FEST, Prof. Noafandy Yahaya, for his visionary leadership and institutional support in advancing FEST’s global engagement agenda. His leadership continues to position the Faculty as a dynamic hub for international collaboration, educational innovation, and academic excellence.

Deep appreciation is also accorded to Prof. Ts Dr. Zaidatun Tasir for her academic leadership and sustained support toward initiatives that enhance FEST’s international visibility and scholarly impact.

The role of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Rustam is particularly noteworthy. His proactive coordination and commitment to internationalisation have been instrumental in facilitating meaningful engagement between UTM, TSU, and the Nigerian High Commission. His contribution demonstrates how strategic academic diplomacy can transform institutional relationships into sustainable global partnerships.

This development further affirms UTM’s commitment to the globalisation of higher education, especially through partnerships that promote shared knowledge, cultural understanding, academic excellence, and transformative educational development across borders.

The recognition from the Nigerian High Commission is not only a ceremonial acknowledgement but also a powerful symbol of trust, friendship, and future-oriented cooperation. It highlights the importance of universities as bridges between nations, where scholarship becomes diplomacy, and education becomes a pathway to mutual development.

The article is prepared by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Rustam Mohd Rameli and Dr. Abdulmumini Inda, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Technology, UTM