SHAH ALAM: The New Straits Times Group Editor, Farrah Naz Karim, has been appointed as an Adjunct Professor at Universiti Teknologi Mara's (UiTM) Faculty of Communication and Media Studies.
The appointment letter was handed to her by Faculty Dean Dr Abd Rasid Abd Rahman, witnessed by Deputy Deans Dr Noor Mayudia Mohd Mothar (Academic Affairs) and Dr Tengku Elena Tengku Mahamad (Research and Industrial Networks).
Expressing her commitment to collaborate with the faculty in equipping students with skills for the evolving job market, Farrah said there was a need for graduates to be adaptable, competitive, and resilient.
"The industry thrives with talent who are driven, agile, and capable of quick, informed decisions. Graduates must be adaptable, articulate, and able to think on their feet.
"We need graduates who can adapt to any situation, are articulate, knowledgeable, and capable of making quick, well-informed decisions, with minimal supervision.
"They should be able to multitask, upskill, and pivot quickly in response to changes," she said.
Farrah also highlighted the gap between industry expectations and fresh graduates' skills, saying that she aimed to help bridge this divide, making UiTM graduates industry benchmarks.
"The media industry is fast-paced. Graduates must be prepared for constant change, and I'm confident the faculty is ready for the challenge," she said.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank my lecturers and faculty, for instilling in me the values, and work ethics that have shaped my career. It is an honour to give back to the institution that has given me so much," she said, expressing gratitude to her alma mater for shaping her career.
Also appointed Adjunct Professor was World Communication Network Resources (M) Sdn Bhd managing director Jaffri Amin Osman.
Emphasising the importance of industry input in universities, he said it was crucial in providing students with a well-rounded understanding of the industry.
Meanwhile, Abd Rasid said the appointments would contribute to special lectures, seminars, and workshops.
"Their vast experience will help bridge the gap between academia and the media industry. Their insights will also be instrumental in updating the curriculum to align with industry needs.
"The media industry is fast-paced and their appointment of these Adjunct Professors, their engagements will help us to identify the changes in the industry for us to better equip the students," he added.