SINTOK –Earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree marks the start of a career as a lecturer and educator, responsible for guiding and educating future graduates and generations of the nation.
In light of this, the Human Resources Department of Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) organised the Vice-Chancellor’s Meet and Greet Session with Lecturers Session 1/2024 which took place at the UUM Islamic Centre Seminar Hall.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, emphasised that with the university’s vision to emerge as the eminent management university, UUM is dedicated to nurturing leaders who possess a well-rounded character, ready to serve the global community.
“The primary objective is to propel the university forward, establishing UUM as a leader in management education, a reference centre for management in the five countries based on the highest number of student practices, and a catalyst for growth in the northern region.
“Thus, as an educator shaping future graduates and the next generation of the country, dedication and proactivity are essential in achieving our goals while also fostering the development of both the university and society,” he said.
He explained that lecturers also require the collaboration of a team, the mentorship of experienced lecturers, the support of the administration, and the willingness to face challenges, innovate, and uphold their commitments to their responsibilities.
Additionally, they bear responsibilities and Key Performance Indicators (KPI) that enhance the tasks they perform and their professional development.
Various aspects such as enhancing teaching, journal writing, supervision, research, consultation and commercialization, contribution to the university, and other responsibilities at the university, industry, and community levels form the basis of performance evaluations.
Additionally, he discussed the progress of UUM, highlighting its numerous successes and achievements both domestically and internationally. These include programmes that have received accreditation from AMBA, IQA, AACSB, and EPAS.
“In terms of internationalisation, China, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates have the highest number of students. Meanwhile, the university has also established collaborative ties with France, Japan, Uzbekistan, Thailand, and Indonesia,” he said.
Additionally, he discussed the aspects of career advancement, research, publication, and integrity that a dedicated lecturer must uphold. 
The meeting brought together over 110 academic staff who have served the university for six years or less, including newly recruited lecturers.
Also present at the event was the registrar, Mr. Ahmad Rasidi Abdullah, who also actively engaged in the question-and-answer session.
