Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) through the College of Computing, Informatics and Mathematics (KPPIM), has successfully conducted a benchmarking visit to three notable universities in the United Kingdom (UK) from the 18th July to 20th July 2023. Led by Prof. Ts. Dr Haryani Haron, Assistant Vice Chancellor of KPPIM, the primary objective of the visit was to gain comprehensive insights into the best practices of curriculum programs at the University of Kent, University of Sheffield, and University of Leeds. UiTM’s delegation further included Assoc. Prof Dr Ahmad Zia Ul – Saufie Mohamad Japeri, Head of the School of Mathematical Sciences, alongside Dr Sofianita Mutalib, Senior Lecturer in Data Science, and Dr Nurain Ibrahim, Senior Lecturer in Statistics. The visit also encompassed deliberations concerning the curriculum of the Master of Science (Applied Statistics) and Master of Data Science program. The insights gained from these discussions hold immense value, considering that the Master’s programs of the host universities bear accreditation from the esteemed Royal Statistical Society (RSS).
Prof. Haryani first visited the University of Kent on July 18, 2023 to meet with Professor Jian Zhang, an esteemed figure in Statistics, and Dr Peng Liu, a lecturer in Statistics. The relationship between UiTM and the University of Kent has been strengthened through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2020. This strategic agreement has not only fortified the bond between the two institutions but has also paved the way for the cultivation of ongoing collaborative endeavors. The discussions held during the visit encompassed a spectrum of pivotal topics. These included comprehensive dialogues pertaining to master’s programs that hold the honorable accreditation of the Royal Statistical Society (RSS), prospects for collaborative global teaching initiatives, as well as the exploration of possibilities for external examiner appointments and joint supervisions.
Prof. Haryani further extended a promising commitment during the visit where she affirmed the intention to facilitate the participation of three Actuarial Sciences students as part of the upcoming student mobility program, anticipated to take place in November 2023. This commitment underlines the dedication of both institutions to fostering international academic exchanges and enriching educational experiences.
The next visit took place on July 19th, 2023, at the University of Sheffield. The delegation from this respected institution was represented by Dr Suvadeep Mazumdar, a senior lecturer in Data Analytics, and Dr Kevin Walters, a lecturer in Statistics. The dialogue at the University of Sheffield revolved around the invaluable insights shared by Dr. Kevin Walters regarding the process of obtaining the RSS accreditation, which he aptly illustrated through best practices. The meeting transpired within the dynamic ambience of the School of Mathematics and Statistics, situated at the University of Sheffield. This collaborative endeavor is poised to yield further positive outcomes in the near future as plans are underway to establish concise and focused short course modules, with the University of Sheffield’s faculty members, including one of their accomplished lecturers, slated to contribute as a speaker. Moreover, prospective endeavors encompassed both student and staff mobility initiatives, as well as a shared commitment to embarking on joint research ventures were also encapsulated during the meeting. This anticipated synergy holds the potential to extend beyond borders, facilitating the realization of global lecture sessions.
The final visit occurred on July 20th, 2023, at the University of Leeds. The primary objective was to facilitate the exchange of valuable insights and expertise aimed at enhancing our academic programs, specifically the Master of Science (Applied Statistics) and Master of Data Science. Representing the University of Leeds was Associate Prof. Dr. Arief Gusnanto, a dedicated Lecturer in Statistics. His insightful comments, ideas, and recommendations regarding KPPIM’s Master’s programs proved invaluable, and KPPIM are committed to incorporating them to align with the requirements for RSS accreditation. Beyond the immediate goals, the visit also encompassed a broader purpose – fostering stronger connections between UiTM and the University of Leeds, thereby amplifying the impact of research collaborations at both local and national levels. This collaborative venture was designed to enhance existing ties and explore additional avenues for potential future collaborations, underlining the shared commitment of both institutions to continuous improvement and partnership.
UiTM academic visit to UK universities fosters strategic alliances aligning with SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals. In the era of IR4.0, global collaboration is crucial for society’s progress through exchanges of best practices and digital transformation which promotes the objectives of SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. The objectives of the visit also holistically align with the government’s aspiration of Malaysia Madani.
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