Universiti Malaya (UM) is collaborating with China’s Tsinghua University, ranked 25th for academic achievement and innovation in the QS World University Rankings 2024, to foster a globalised educational environment and to provide greater opportunities for its students.

To mark the partnership, a special lecture on the importance of cross-cultural knowledge exchange and collaborative learning was delivered by Tsinghua University president Prof Dr Wang Xiqin at UM, a press release dated Oct 5 read.

UM outgoing vice chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Hamdi Abd Shukor said the varsity, together with Tsinghua University, is embarking on a mission to instil entrepreneurial spirit in students.

“This collaboration will nurture project-related startups, providing our students with a platform to transform innovative ideas into thriving businesses.“Our partnership introduces comprehensive internship programmes bridging the gap between academia and industry.

“These internships will empower our students with invaluable real-world experience, enhancing their employability and shaping the leaders of tomorrow,” he said, adding that UM is dedicated to promoting mobility programmes that can facilitate academic and cultural exchanges as such initiatives will allow students from both institutions to gain a global perspective, broaden their horizons, and cultivate a deep understanding of diverse cultures.

He said UM would also strengthen its medical courses through the collaboration.

“By sharing best practices, research findings and resources, we aim to ensure that our medical programmes remain at the forefront of healthcare education.

“We are excited to explore Tsinghua University’s innovative eight-year programmes, which seamlessly integrate medical studies with various other fields.

“This pioneering approach will empower our students to develop a diverse skill set tailored to their unique interests and career aspirations,” Prof Mohd Hamdi said, adding that ongoing discussions on the Dual Degree Master’s Programme in Resources and Environment underscored the varsities’ shared dedication to interdisciplinary education and cutting-edge research.