SINTOK – Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) will commence its flexible and Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programme on 25 October.
Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, the Vice-Chancellor announced that the ODL programme, managed by the Centre for Professional and Continuing Education (PACE), will start with two study programmes, namely the Bachelor of Public Management and the Bachelor of Business Administration.
He explained that ODL is a modern learning method that is aligned with technological advancements and IT infrastructure, offering a new approach that combines innovative teaching and learning techniques with interaction between lecturers and students.
“The ODL programme is conducted entirely online, optimising flexibility. Teaching and learning sessions can be accessed from anywhere at any time, provided there is an internet connection.”
“Therefore, I hope for strong commitment and support from all, particularly PACE, UUMIT, the Sultanah Bahiyah Library, and UUM LEADS, to ensure that all procedures and regulations for the ODL programme run smoothly,” he said during the official launch of the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) Programme at the Sultanah Bahiyah Library Auditorium.
He also emphasised that the success of the ODL programme relies on the School of Government and the School of Business Management, which are responsible for providing lecturers and all teaching materials in accordance with the set standards.
“To ensure the success of this ODL programme, both students and staff require strong digital skills.
“The support system among UUM staff is crucial to providing the best services to students, ensuring that any issues related to the management of the ODL programme, including technical aspects, are handled efficiently,” he added
Meanwhile, UUM Holdings Board Member, Dato’ Shushilil Azam Shuib, mentioned that after years of effort, ODL has finally been realised, overcoming numerous challenges to meet the requirements of the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and pass both internal and external audits.
“This aligns with the Ministry of Higher Education’s goal of developing a diverse educational ecosystem that is accessible and offers exciting new opportunities for students.”
“The Covid-19 pandemic brought significant changes to higher education institutions, especially public universities, prompting them to offer online teaching and learning programmes.
“I believe the time is right, even if we are starting with just two programmes, we hope ODL will expand internationally, particularly in Indonesia, where there is high demand,” he said while reading the speech of UUM Holdings Chairman, Dato’ Mohd Zuhri Abdullah.
He added that the ODL programme allows those who are working or who have missed the opportunity to pursue full-time studies to apply for part-time ODL courses without compromising their careers.
The event also included the presentation of royalties amounting RM 753,750 from UUM Leads to UUM.
