Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) is taking a bold step towards enhancing educational opportunities in Mindanao, Philippines, particularly in the fields of business and information technology.
This initiative aligns with the university’s commitment to social responsibility and aims to empower underserved communities in the region.
The collaboration will be undertaken with Mindanao State University (MSU), a leading institution in the Muslim-majority island.
MSU is optimistic that this partnership will help produce the skilled talents necessary to drive development across Mindanao.
“Mindanao is well-known for its expertise in Islamic education and Sharia law. Introducing business programmes, such as Islamic Finance, is timely and relevant,” said Jashim A. AbdulRahman, Associate Professor V at the King Faisal Center for Islamic, Arabic, and Asian Studies at MSU, and head of the delegation.
Representing UniKL in the engagement was its President and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Ir. Dr. Azman Senin. He emphasised that this initiative follows the visit of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Rural and Regional Development, YAB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, to MSU.
“As part of this effort, UniKL is exploring the possibility of sponsoring students from Mindanao, which will be further deliberated.
“There is tremendous potential for collaboration, particularly in postgraduate studies. What we need is a comprehensive mapping of the programmes that we can offer to meet their needs,” Prof. Azman explained during the session.
MSU, established in Marawi City in 1961, boasts 14 faculties and a robust mission to educate the youth of Mindanao, Sulu, and Palawan (MINSUPALA).
The university offers a range of degree programmes aimed at supporting regional industries and fostering the integration of Muslims and other cultural minorities into the national mainstream.