USM and UOMUS Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation in Anatomy

KUBANG KERIAN, Kelantan, 19 August 2024 Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has today signed an ‘Academic Programme Agreement’ (APA) with Al-Mustaqbal University (UOMUS), Iraq, to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the field of anatomy.

The collaboration brings together two (2) academic institutions from different regions of the world, fostering a collaborative educational ecosystem that will benefit both parties.

The APA signing ceremony was completed by the Dean of the School of Medical Sciences (PPSP), Professor Dr Abdul Razak Sulaiman, representing the Vice-Chancellor of USM, and the Deputy Dean of Postgraduate Studies and Professional Training, PPSP USM, Professor Dr Irfan Mohamad, on behalf of USM. Meanwhile, UOMUS was represented by the Academic and International Affairs Advisor to the President, Associate Professor Dr Hamza Mohammed Ridha Al-Khafaji, and the Lecturer from the College of Medicine and Medical Techniques, Dr Maytham Ali Shaalan.

In his speech, Abdul Razak stated that USM acknowledges the transformative power of education that can only be fully realized when aligned with educational institutions' and stakeholders' needs and demands.

“This cooperation aims to create opportunities for knowledge sharing and educational development at the postgraduate level, particularly in the field of anatomy,” he said.

Abdul Razak added that this initiative would provide postgraduate candidates, especially in Iraq, with opportunities to pursue advanced education through a mixed-mode programme for a Master of Science (Clinical Anatomy).

He expressed hope that the implementation of this accredited postgraduate program at UOMUS will proceed smoothly, training graduates to the professional level and equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to excel in their careers.

“I believe this partnership will foster a spirit of excellence within the USM community to realize the university’s vision towards global and holistic educational excellence.

“We hope that the collaboration between USM and UOMUS will benefit academic sharing, innovation, enhancement of research skills and applications, and improve education,” he added.

Abdul Razak hoped this cooperation would serve as a platform for more frequent exchange of experiences between Malaysia and Iraq.

“Let us join forces to empower graduates, equipping them with the necessary skills and guiding them towards successful careers.

“Together, we will unearth the talents of the students so they can meet academic demands and inspire a generation of knowledgeable and skilled professionals who will make a lasting impact on both sides,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, Hamza Mohammed Ridha expressed deep gratitude for this collaboration and hoped that the partnership between the two parties would continue for a longer term for further improvement and new knowledge, particularly in the field of anatomy.

“May this effort yield results that positively impact both parties,” he said.

Also present were the Deputy Deans of PPSP USM, Heads of Departments, Department of Anatomy, PPSP USM, Associate Professor Dr Siti Nurma Hanim Hadie@Haji, and the APA Coordinator between USM and UOMUS, Associate Professor Dr Zul Izhar Mohd Ismail.

Text: Rosalwani Che Soh / Photo: Abdul Hasib Abdul Rahman