CHENNAI, Aug 7 – Fifteen students from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) recently embarked on the Outbound Reach Program 2.0 in Chennai, India, from 28 July to 7 August 2025. The initiative, themed “Navigating Tomorrow: Learning, Leading and Innovating with AI,” blended academic engagement, technological innovation, and cultural discovery, underscoring UTM’s commitment to preparing graduates for a global future.
The programme commenced at the Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology (SIST), where UTM delegates were warmly welcomed by academic leaders and peers. The gathering set the tone for collaboration, exchange, and partnership.
UTM students then joined SIST counterparts in a research presentation session, involving both Engineering and Non-Engineering students. This platform encouraged intellectual dialogue, enabling UTM participants to sharpen presentation skills and share knowledge in an international environment.
Engineering students engaged in an immersive workshop on Augmented and Virtual Reality led by Dr. A. Deepa of SIST. Moving beyond theory, the session incorporated hands-on practice with the Unity platform, sparking innovative applications of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for sustainability. Simultaneously, the Non-Engineering Track brought together UTM participants with BBA and Commerce students in activities on Cross-Cultural Communication in International Markets. Facilitated by Dr. John Paul and Dr. Kalai Lakshmi T.R, the session used interactive games to enhance understanding. Additionally, Tpr. Ts. Dr. Gobi Krishna Sinnaiah delivered a seminar on Malaysia’s Urban Planning System. A cultural performance evening further enriched the experience, where UTM and SIST students showcased traditional music, dance, and art. This event highlighted cultural diplomacy and strengthened friendships across borders.
Beyond the campus, students explored Chennai’s heritage, including Mahabalipuram’s United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)-listed monuments and the Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Mahabalipuram, renowned for its rock-cut temples and monolithic architecture, provided insights into Pallava dynasty artistry and early urban design. The Kapaleeshwarar Temple, with its Dravidian gopuram and detailed carvings, illustrated how spirituality and architecture intertwine to shape cultural identity. These visits emphasized how history and heritage serve as powerful educational tools.
The delegation visited Chennai Institute of Technology (CIT), where discussions focused on strengthening institutional cooperation. Dr. Sri Ram, Dean and Chairman, introduced CIT’s engineering focus and international partnerships with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and Universiti Malaya (UM). The tour showcased research and training facilities, student employability programs, the Cubic Show robotics project, high-performance drone technology, and the Centre of New Energy on sustainable research and innovation.
Overall, Outbound Reach Program 2.0 successfully combined academic enrichment, technological innovation, cultural immersion, and global networking. The initiative not only broadened the horizons of participating students but also strengthened UTM’s international reputation as a university committed to holistic education and global engagement.