SINTOK: Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) has committed to implementing the recommendations put forth by the Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, urging university administrators to facilitate the admission of underprivileged and needy students, including allowing them to defer their registration fee payments.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan said that students classified as underprivileged, regardless of race or religion, who will be joining UUM during the October 1 admission session, will not only be granted deferment of fees and other charges but will also receive financial assistance amounting to RM500 per student.
According to him, a total of 166 students have been identified in this category, some of whom have already receiving financial assistance prior to their accommodation registration on 1 October. Additionally, assistance in the form of Bakul Rahmah has been provided to the families concerned.
The Department of Student Affairs has announced that all disadvantaged students intending to register, including those from low-income families, should submit their names and relevant information to the university.
In addition, UUM is also ready to provide complimentary tuition assistance throughout the students’ studies to those hailing from underprivileged families, specifically to the first child in the family to attend university. This assistance is called the ‘Sulung Program 3.0’.
Moreover, UUM offers a food bank designed to support students in need, ensuring that no student goes hungry due to financial constraints.
The Student Affairs Department will maintain its primary focus on providing assistance, including the distribution of free laptops and any other necessary assistance.
“We want to ensure that no family feels apprehensive about how likely their children are able to pursue their studies at UUM due to financial problems.
“I have also requested that the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Prof. Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed, to implement the ‘Jelajah Prihatin’ programme to identify and provide direct assistance to students in need,” he said.
The Student Affairs Department will also provide support in facilitating students seeking loan assistance through PTPTN or other agencies.
Last Thursday, the Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, directed all university administrators to ensure admission of underprivileged and needy students, which includes allowing them to defer their registration fee payments.
Datuk Seri Dr Zambry has also instructed the university to facilitate early study assistance through PTPTN for the students concerned.
