PEKAN, Feb 27 – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Ariffin Abu Hassan, the Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP) for Malaysia and Director of UTM International, was invited as a distinguished speaker for the Erasmus+ Info Session hosted by the Centre for International Relations, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA).

The seminar was honored by a welcoming speech from the Vice-Chancellor of UMPSA, Prof. Dr. Yatimah Alias, who highlighted how UMPSA continues to strengthen its global academic footprint through active participation in Erasmus+ projects. She emphasized the university’s collaborations with esteemed institutions such as the University of Padova from Italy; Istanbul Technical University, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, and Piri Reis University from Türkiye. These partnerships have facilitated student and staff mobility, providing enriching international experiences.

The seminar’s main highlight was the engaging sharing session by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Ariffin Abu Hassan, who provided valuable insights into the various opportunities offered under the Erasmus+ programme. Throughout his presentation, Dr. Ariffin explained on how the Erasmus+ can further support UMPSA’s effort in enhancing global engagement and international collaboration. The sessions covered were his role as the ENFP, Mobility of Higher Education Students and Staff, Erasmus Mundus Design Measures (EMDM), Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM), Capacity Building in Higher Education (CBHE), and Jean Monnet. His clear and comprehensive explanation allowed the participants to gain a better understanding of the potential benefits and opportunities available through the programme, both for the students and academic staff.

Participants expressed their satisfaction with the informative session, appreciating the practical insights shared by Dr. Ariffin. Following the session, several participants took the initiative to reach out for further information on the specific programme that piqued their interest. They were eager to deepen their understanding, particularly on application procedures and how they could get involved in the Erasmus+ key actions. The enthusiastic response from participants reflected the success of the session in sparking interest and encouraging active exploration of international opportunities.

Through this Erasmus+ Info Session, the ENFP Malaysia remains committed to supporting Malaysian institutions in leveraging Erasmus+ opportunities for academic excellence and international collaboration. By providing clear guidance and sharing stories, ENFP Malaysia aims to encourage more active participants form local universities and strengthen their presence on the global stage. This initiative not only open door for students and staff mobility but also foster meaningful partnerships that contribute to the growth and internationalisations of higher education in Malaysia.

Photo credit : Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah

Prepared by: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Ariffin Abu Hassan, Nur Masitoh Islamiah Mustaffa Kamal