1-8 August 2024: An international mobility programme under the Asian International Mobility for Students (AIMS) was participated by a student from the Faculty of Education, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Puncak Alam, representing the university and country. The AIMS Summer Intensive Programme was held in the beautiful state of Hiroshima, Japan, with Hiroshima University as the host, exploring the theme of ‘Future of Higher Education from Student Perspectives’.
A diverse group of 28 students from various countries participated in the programme to collaboratively investigate and provide a distinct visualisation of the ideal university in the year of 2035. Apart from lectures and group discussions, the students engaged in field trips to Naka Incineration Plant to observe Hiroshima’s efforts in waste management, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and most remarkably, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony; an annual ceremony to remember the souls lost in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945.
The programme was also attended by Prof. Datin Dr. Suzana Sulaiman, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International) and Assoc. Prof. Datin Dr. Norazida Mohamed, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (International), in conjunction with the 18th Annual Review Meeting of the AIMS Programme on 7-8 August 2024, connecting government and university officials from various countries who also witnessed the students’ final presentation. The officials present exhibited contentment, satisfaction, and pride with the students’ outcome and performance.
Taking in the splendour of Hiroshima after the massacre in 1945 is a privilege and a one-of-a-kind experience for an exchange student. The grant of the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) scholarship to further aid the expenses truly made a huge difference and allowed for further appreciation of the indomitable human spirit of the citizens of Hiroshima.
The involvement of a UiTM student in the programme sparked interest for other students alike to join mobility programmes. It provided an opportunity for knowledge, experience, and skills exchange with the local students and peers. This experience becomes a unique one that broadens horizons, fosters international collaboration, and deepens understanding of global perspectives, inspiring future students to engage in cross-cultural exchanges and contribute to a more interconnected world.