ALOR STAR: Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) has formed a task force to examine the establishment of new faculties in engineering and technical disciplines.
UUM Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan said the initiative aligned with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's proposal to develop such faculties to support the expanding electrical and electronics sector.
"The university fully welcomes the prime minister's suggestion to create the space and opportunity for UUM to contribute to this development," he said at a press conference today.
"In this context, we have established a dedicated committee under the deputy vice-chancellor for academic affairs to assess how UUM can play a pivotal role in offering programmes related to technical fields.
"This effort is part of a broader initiative to address workforce needs, particularly among graduates in the northern region. At present, we are conducting an internal review within UUM."
He added that while the university had the resources and expertise to develop the departments, all steps will undergo careful evaluation.
On Aug 8, Anwar reiterated the government's commitment to enhancing the electrical and electronics sector by strengthening technical and vocational education and training.
He said the government was considering the establishment of an engineering faculty at UUM to further this initiative.