Latest news with #MUET
Express Tribune
5 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
NED gets new boys, girls' hostels
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah emphasised his government's dedication to higher education, digital empowerment, and youth development through pioneering initiatives such as the People's Information Technology Programme (PITP). He said this while addressing inauguration ceremony of newly constructed buildings at NED University and distribution of Chromebooks for top performers of PITP on Friday. CM Shah announced that Sindh has allocated Rs42 billion for public sector universities in the current financial year — the highest among all provinces — to support operational needs, research, infrastructure, and innovation. The CM also inaugurated two major infrastructure projects at NED University — the new building for the Department of Food Engineering, equipped with advanced laboratories for Rs96.48 million, and the International Boys Hostel, which accommodates 112 students and was funded with Rs67.11 million. Additionally, a dedicated Girls Hostel block for 52 female students, funded with Rs98.52 million, was recognised as a step towards promoting gender inclusivity in engineering and technical education. PITP PITP has succeeded in partnership with NED University, Mehran University of Engineering & Technology (MUET), and Sukkur IBA. Notably, 13,565 students trained under PITP-I surpassed expectations, exceeding targets, the CM said. Of these, 4,353 graduates have secured employment, contributing Rs49 million in direct income to the provincial economy. CM Murad appreciated the notable female participation, being 40 per cent at Sukkur IBA, 36 per cent at NED, and 33.6 per cent at MUET, with 62 per cent of MUET students coming from rural backgrounds, underscoring the programme's inclusive approach. The CM distributed 300 Google Chromebooks / laptops to the top-performing PITP students through a transparent and merit-based selection criterion. He stressed that the selection process was completely merit-based, transparent, and tailored for each institution.
Malay Mail
14-07-2025
- General
- Malay Mail
Your MUET band doesn't define you — Shazlin Niza Ab Razak
JULY 14 — In Malaysia, English is more than just an academic subject. It is often perceived as a marker of intelligence, a pathway to higher education, and a key qualification in the job market. The Malaysian University English Test, or MUET, has become more than an assessment. For many, it feels like a verdict. Band 5 and 5+ are celebrated. Anything below that is met with silence, sometimes even shame. MUET, or the Malaysian University English Test, is more than just a language exam. Taken by over 80,000 candidates each year, it is a key requirement for entry into local universities and is often perceived as a measure of academic worth. The test assesses listening, speaking, reading, and writing, yet many students who perform well still struggle to speak with confidence in real-life situations. Nationally, most candidates score between Band 3 and Band 4, a range that reflects developing proficiency, not failure. And yet, anything below Band 5 is often viewed with quiet disappointment. This mindset must change. MUET is a benchmark, not a sentence. It is meant to guide learning, not to define potential. But here is the truth. Your MUET band does not define your future. It is not the final word on your ability, your intelligence, or your potential. It is simply a snapshot, not the full story. Real English proficiency is not just about exams. It is about expression. About having the courage to speak, the willingness to make mistakes, and the determination to improve. I have taught English for nearly two decades, and I have seen students with Band 3 or 4 speak with more confidence and clarity than those with higher scores who remain too afraid to open their mouths. So if you received a lower band score, do not be discouraged. It does not mean you are less capable. It certainly does not mean you should stop trying. Unfortunately, we have built a culture that prioritises correctness over communication. Our students memorise essays, drill grammar rules, and rehearse oral tests like performances. But when it is time to use English in real conversations, many fall silent. Why do so many second-guess every sentence they speak? Why fear ridicule more than embracing the chance to connect with others? We have built a culture that prioritises correctness over communication. — Picture by Shafwan Zaidon Many Malaysian candidates achieve impressive scores such as Band 5 and 5 plus in MUET, a testament to their linguistic knowledge. Yet those with lower band scores should not feel discouraged or afraid to speak. In fact, fluency grows with courage, not just grades. Even if you obtain a lower band, that should never be a reason to fear speaking in English. The real barrier is not the score but the mindset. We hesitate because we have been taught to avoid mistakes, when in fact, mistakes are essential to learning and growth. The truth is, the only way to improve our English is through consistent practice by speaking regularly, regardless of our MUET band score or how good we think we are. This is a crucial truth that Malaysian learners must come to recognise. A Band 3 student who dares to speak in English is often making greater strides than a Band 5 plus candidate who remains silent out of fear. Strong academic scores alone do not ensure meaningful progress. Confidence is not a privilege reserved for top scorers. It is nurtured through consistent effort, perseverance and a readiness to embrace mistakes. Every spoken attempt, no matter how imperfect, brings you one step closer to fluency. Perfection is not a prerequisite for improvement. What truly matters is the courage to keep speaking English, regardless of your MUET band score. So do not let your MUET score shrink your voice. Why let a number hold back your potential? Why stay silent when your ideas are worth hearing? Speak anyway. Speak with heart, even if your grammar falters. It is perfectly okay to make mistakes because you are learning, and every slip is part of the journey toward improvement. Speak with intent, even if you must pause to find the right word. Speak because you deserve to be heard, no matter what your band is. Your voice matters, and it starts with the courage to use it. English should not be a barrier that holds anyone back. It is meant to be a bridge, a means to express your ideas, your vision, and your story to the world. A test score alone should never have the authority to silence your voice. So go ahead. Ask the question. Join the conversation. Use the language you have learned and let it evolve with you. You are not failing. You are learning. Because in the real world, it is not your MUET band that will open doors. It is your voice. * The author is the English Language Lecturer at the Centre for Foundation Studies in Science (PASUM), Universiti Malaya. ** This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail
Business Recorder
10-07-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Seminar discusses role of AI in corporate sector
HYDERABAD: An engaging seminar on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the corporate sector and industries was held at the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) Learning and Development Centre (LDC) in Hyderabad, bringing together industry experts, academicians, and professionals for a thoughtful exchange on the opportunities and ethical challenges posed by emerging technologies. Organised by SSGC Hyderabad in collaboration with its Corporate Communication Department (CCD) and other teams, the event underscored the growing importance of AI in transforming business operations, leadership, and decision-making. The seminar was opened with welcoming remarks from Akram Qureshi, Regional Head of Hyderabad, who stressed the need for corporate entities to embrace technological change and harness AI's potential to reshape industries. He encouraged participants to actively engage in conversations about how AI can serve both business efficiency and societal progress. Nida Bhurgri described AI as a transformative force rather than a passing trend. 'It's not just a buzzword; it's a tool for innovation and problem-solving that is already reshaping industries, careers, and everyday life,' she remarked. Mehwish Khan, a PhD scholar at Mehran University of Engineering and Technology (MUET), demonstrated real-world uses of AI in operational excellence within the energy sector, from corrosion control to predictive maintenance and safety monitoring. Further expanding on AI's interdisciplinary impact, Assistant Professor Rabeea from MUET highlighted how AI-driven, data-based research is propelling advancements in healthcare, environmental science, and engineering. Meanwhile, Umair Jamil, Senior Lecturer at SZABIST Hyderabad, discussed AI-powered tools for employee training and continuous development in rapidly evolving workplaces. One of the seminar's key sessions came from Dr Shehram Shah, Associate Professor at MUET, who examined the future of work amid increasing automation, big data, and AI-driven management systems, offering a timely reflection on the ethical and operational consequences of these shifts. A broader industrial perspective was shared by Dr Farman Ali Shah, former Pro Vice-Chancellor of MUET, who showcased AI's applications in manufacturing, logistics, and energy. He emphasised the significance of such seminars in bridging the gap between academia and industry, enabling students and professionals to engage with real-world challenges and foster future collaborations. On the critical issue of AI ethics, Naushad Siddiqui, Deputy General Manager, IT Audit at SSGC, cautioned against the risks associated with data privacy, algorithmic biases, and accountability. He called for a balanced approach that safeguards public trust while encouraging innovation. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Borneo Post
04-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
STU calls for review of teacher intake system in Sarawak
Kullin says the issue must not be addressed by simply taking in candidates solely based on them having education's degree, without considering their core qualifications and overall academic backgrounds. KUCHING (July 4): Sarawak Teachers Union (STU) is calling for urgent revision of the teachers' intake system in the state, in view of the obvious flaws that it has observed. In this matter, union president Kullin Djayang said the issue must not be addressed by simply taking in candidates solely based on them having education's degree, without considering their core qualifications and overall academic backgrounds. 'The panel (tasked with selecting the teachers) must also look into the IPTs (institutions of higher learning) that the teaching candidates graduated from. 'If they're from the IPTAs (public institutions) such as UPSI, UPM and UTM, we know that the quality of their qualifications is assured. 'For IPTA entry under education's degree programme, the candidates must at least obtain a CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) of 3.0, Band 3 MUET (Malaysian University English Test), and pass the oral MEDSI (Malaysian Educators Selection Inventory) exam,' he told Utusan Borneo here today. Adding on, Kullin said those who made the cut for the Teachers Education Institute (IPG) would also undergo similar strict selection process, which would include them scoring a minimum of 5As in their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations, undertaking the Teachers Education Qualification Test (UKELP), as well as the psychometric and fitness tests, and also attending a special interview. 'All these requirements are meant to ensure that only quality teaching candidates would be selected; thus, upholding the status of this noble profession and producing excellent human capital,' he added. In this regard, Kullin said that since the implementation of the special teachers' intake Sarawak, he claimed that the selection of those from private IPTs had been 'rushed'; thus, he said this could sow seeds of doubts over their qualifications. 'Many (from private IPTs) do not go through the 'filters' like the MEDSI, UKELP, psychometric test and the special interview. 'Even more so, it is known that the SPM and STPM (Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia – the highest secondary school qualification) results are not a top requirement for entry to private IPTs, unlike the strict qualifications for entering IPGs and IPTAs,' he pointed out. STU, according to Kullin, is also concerned about the quality of facilities, as well as the teaching workforce and training at some private IPTs. 'STU has no intention to place blame on any college, but the union is pushing the Education Service Commission (SPP) to put particular focus when it comes to determining the viability and qualification of these institutions in providing education and training to future teachers; undertake action to making the selection so as to ensure high quality of education in Sarawak guru demi menjamin kualiti pendidikan di Sarawak. 'We are sure that the Education Ministry, and the government of Sarawak specifically through the State Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, would want teachers of great calibre. 'We believe that teachers with great education will contribute to building outstanding future generations,' he stressed. Kullin Djayang qualification revision STU teachers' intake
The Sun
25-06-2025
- General
- The Sun
Form Six breaks barriers, gets major boost
KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 300 scholarships will be awarded to outstanding Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) graduates to pursue education degrees at public universities and teacher training institutes, said Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek. She said the initiative is part of the Education Ministry's efforts to create more pathways for high-achieving Form Six students and to cultivate a new generation of qualified and passionate educators. 'Previously, only SPM holders were eligible to enrol in public teacher education institutes,' Fadhlina said during the excellence appreciation ceremony for the national-level STPM, MUET (Malaysian University English Test) and SKBMW (Malay Language Proficiency Certificate Test for Foreign Citizens) on Tuesday. 'Now, STPM graduates have the opportunity to undergo formal training to become future educators. 'We want to nurture individuals with the drive, commitment and integrity to uplift the teaching profession and become exemplary leaders in the field.' The announcement comes as the ministry intensifies efforts to reposition Form Six as a competitive and respected post-SPM option. This year's STPM results saw the nation's highest-ever cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 2.85, with 1,266 candidates scoring a perfect 4 – the highest score since the current exam format was introduced. 'With this encouraging performance, and considering STPM's global recognition for academic quality, I strongly urge more SPM school-leavers to view Form Six as a serious academic route.' Fadhlina said the ministry has rolled out various initiatives in recent years, including curriculum enhancements, leadership development, financial support and closer integration with the higher education sector to strengthen the Form Six ecosystem. Among the most notable is the Form Six university transition pilot programme, launched earlier this month in collaboration with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and Universiti Sains Malaysia. 'The initiative places Form Six students in residential university campuses, where they gain full access to facilities, laboratories, academic activities and digital infrastructure. 'While they continue preparing for their STPM examinations, the immersive university environment helps ease their transition into tertiary education. 'We hope to expand this model to more public universities in the future.' To further promote student engagement and leadership, Fadhlina announced the upcoming formation of a national-level Form Six student council, with elections scheduled to take place after the new intake completes registration. The council is expected to be formalised by October. 'The council will give Form Six students a platform to voice their views and bring them closer to the ministry. It's about building character and leadership beyond academic achievement.' Fadhlina said financial support also remains a core focus. 'All Form Six students now receive RM150 in early school assistance, while 500 B40 students are currently receiving RM100 monthly stipends under the Farm Fresh STPM student bursary programme, launched in May and continuing until December 2025. 'We are working to reduce financial barriers so that students from all backgrounds can thrive.' In recognition of academic excellence, 14 schools with top achievements under the STPM Modular System 2 and 3 will each receive RM80,000 in support from the Malaysia Examinations Council and Bank Islam. Fadhlina also reminded the public that STPM represents more than just an academic qualification – it is a platform for holistic growth and national contribution. 'STPM is not just about grades. It's about resilience, vision and the strength of character our young people carry with them. 'And if anyone is still wondering who stands behind these students, let it be known that the Education Ministry is with them every step of the way.' Separately, in response to concerns over matriculation entry criteria, Fadhlina clarified that an A- is still considered excellent, and there is no policy that excludes students based on this grade. 'Let me be clear: we never said an A- is not an A. Entry into matriculation is based on merit. All qualified students will go through a fair and transparent process.' Noting that 86% of matriculation applicants sat for nine subjects while 14% took 10, she also called for fairness in evaluating all students, regardless of the number of subjects taken. A total of 42,861 candidates registered for the 2024 STPM examination. Of the figure, 41,434 (96.67%) sat for all three semesters. The majority of the candidates were from the Social Science stream.
