Latest news with #USM
New Straits Times
2 days ago
- Science
- New Straits Times
USM's Communication programme ranked among Asia's finest
GEORGE TOWN: Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues to make strides in the field of communication and media, with its Communication programme ranked among the best in the EduRank 2025 listings. This accomplishment reaffirms USM's standing not only in science and technology but also in the social sciences and humanities. It reflects the university's belief that social sciences are not simply complementary to the sciences, but are vital drivers of societal progress — shaping discourse, influencing perception, and guiding action both nationally and globally. According to the latest EduRank results: - Broadcast Journalism: No. 1 in Malaysia, No. 10 in Asia - Media Studies: No. 2 in Malaysia, No. 30 in Asia - Radio and Television Broadcasting: No. 4 in Malaysia, No. 73 in Asia - Communication and Public Relations: No. 5 in Malaysia, No. 16 in Asia - Journalism and Digital Media: No. 6 in Malaysia, No. 59 in Asia EduRank is an independent global university ranking system that assesses over 14,000 institutions across 183 countries. It evaluates universities based on three main indicators: academic performance, non-academic prominence, and alumni achievements. USM vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Seri Ir Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed expressed pride in the achievement, attributing it to the dedication of the university's academic and administrative staff, students, alumni, and strategic industry partners. "This recognition highlights that USM is not only producing world-class scientists and researchers but also shaping future leaders in communication and media," he said. School of Communication dean Associate Professor Dr Bahiyah Omar said the success was the result of sustained commitment, teamwork and strategic collaboration. "This recognition will serve as a catalyst to further strengthen our academic programmes and expand research networks and global partnerships," she said. Journalism graduate Nur Alwani Zafirah Khairul, who completed her studies in 2021 and now works as an executive journalist at Kosmo!, also shared her pride in USM's achievement. "USM and the School of Communication instilled in me the skills and professional values I carry today. It provided the foundation for my career in journalism," she said.
Barnama
3 days ago
- Science
- Barnama
USM's Communication Programme Ranked Among The Best In Edurank 2025
GEORGE TOWN, July 29 (Bernama) -- Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues to excel in the field of communication and media, with its Communication programme listed among the top in EduRank 2025. According to a statement from USM's Media and Public Relations Centre, this achievement proves that the university is not only a leader in science and technology but also in the social sciences and humanities. 'This recognition reinforces the philosophy that social sciences and humanities play a crucial role in shaping the future. These fields are not just complements to the sciences but also drivers of societal thought, shaping discourse, perceptions, and actions on both national and global levels,' read the statement. EduRank is an independent ranking system that evaluates 14,131 universities from 183 countries. The ranking considers three main components: 45 per cent research performance, 45 per cent non-academic visibility, and 10 per cent alumni achievements. Meanwhile, USM's vice chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed, expressed pride in this recognition, attributing the success to the collective efforts of lecturers, administrators, students, alumni, and industry partners. Abdul Rahman said the achievement demonstrates that USM produces not only top scientists and researchers but also influential leaders in the field of communication and media. In addition, School of Communication (PPK) dean Associate Prof Dr Bahiyah Omar, described the success as a result of the integrated commitment, dedication, and cooperation of all parties involved. 'This success will serve as a catalyst for strengthening our academic programmes and expanding research and collaboration networks on a global scale. 'This accomplishment shows that USM and PPK are not just institutions for knowledge delivery but also agents of meaningful change, addressing global challenges through communication based on integrity and sustainability,' she said in the statement.
The Star
5 days ago
- Science
- The Star
Space for all
Penang was chosen as the location for Malaysia's first cosmonaut school due to its thriving space enthusiast community and facilities like Tech Dome Penang, which will serve as the secretariat of the International Youth Space Academy (IYSA), says Malaysian astrophysicist Tan Sri Mazlan Othman. 'The state is also home to Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), which has its own space engineering programme, so the ecosystem is already ready,' she said. Building on this, USM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed highlighted the need to nurture students' interest and passion for space science and technology from an early age. Integrating space education at an early stage could inspire students to pursue careers in areas such as aerospace engineering, satellite systems, remote sensing, and other space-related fields, he said. Prof Abdul Rahman added that it is equally important to recognise space technology as a catalyst for everyday innovation. 'Advancements originally developed for space missions have the potential to benefit various sectors, including healthcare, communication, and environmental management,' he noted. With new frontiers opening up, he said, space exploration will continue to create a diverse range of career opportunities for young Malaysians in fields such as astrobiology, aerospace engineering and space law. Ensuring equitable access While early nurturing is key, Datuk Nonee Ashirin believes that equal access is just as important. For her, the mission to launch IYSA – a joint effort between the Nonee Ashirin Foundation (NAF) and CWC Enterprise Pte Ltd – is deeply personal. 'As both a mother and a leader, I feel a personal responsibility to ensure that no child is left behind simply because of where they were born. 'To me, it's about making sure that a child in rural Sabah or deep in the interiors of Kelantan has the same spark of opportunity as one in a top-tier school in Kuala Lumpur,' the NAF founder shared. Nonee Ashirin envisions the IYSA as a pioneering hub where students from diverse backgrounds can see themselves thriving in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), aerospace and exploration fields. Echoing her sentiments, National STEM Association president and founder Emerita Prof Datuk Dr Noraini Idris said space education must be both a moral and strategic priority for Malaysia. 'Rural and underrepresented communities in Malaysia often face systemic barriers – limited Internet access, under-resourced schools, under-trained teachers, and fewer role models in STEM fields,' she said. If left unaddressed, she said these gaps will perpetuate inequalities in Malaysia's future workforce, hindering the nation's ability to fully realise its human capital potential. 'Space education should not be viewed as a luxury reserved for elite schools (such as boarding schools, international schools, and private schools), but rather as a national investment in talent development,' she said. Partnerships with the private sector are vital if we are to level the playing field, Nonee Ashirin added. 'Private sector participation is not just welcomed – it's essential. We are working closely with Safran Helicopter Engines, the Royal Malaysian Air Force and more. 'We are truly looking forward to turning it into a model of how industry and education can come together to spark a national movement,' she said. Shaping future leaders Russian cosmonaut trainer Timofey Egorov, who will be helping to develop the IYSA curriculum, said the academy will expose students aged 10 to 15 to modules that combine physical conditioning, science and ethics – all regarded as essential qualities for future cosmonauts. 'In the curriculum, there will be three major modules – basics of a healthy lifestyle; space flight essentials; ethics and cosmism,' he shared. One of the most transformative parts of the programme, Egorov highlighted, is the summer camp module. 'Living in nature 24/7, without parents, and having to care for yourself and others makes huge transformations in young minds. They become self-reliant, disciplined, and learn that the world around them is connected with them on a deep emotional and fundamental level,' he said. To Mazlan, the IYSA is also about shaping future leaders who understand that space will be central to all aspects of life. 'This academy is not just about creating future space leaders, but future leaders because space is going to be an integral part of whatever we do in the future,' she said. Looking ahead, Mazlan sees the IYSA becoming a regional hub for space education. 'We're focused on promoting the academy among Asean countries as it's affordable for families in the region to come to Penang. 'But we are also planning on approaching other countries with established space programmes as they may be interested in diversifying their training venue,' she concluded.
Associated Press
24-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
New scholarship opportunity offers affordable option for Mississippi college students to earn degree
University of Southern Mississippi and Pearl River Community College announced Wednesday a new coastal pathways scholarship that will give graduates of the two-year school a way to complete their bachelor's degree at USM. The collaboration announced at USM's Gulf Park campus in Long Beach is part of a regional initiative to boost education access and add job opportunities to the Mississippi Gulf Coast region. In May, USM held a similar event with Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. The partnership with the community colleges is also part of a larger effort to boost USM's enrollment, which continues to decline with only 564 students enrolled in the Gulf Park campus last fall, according to data from the school's Office of Institutional Research. 'This scholarship pathway represents more than just financial support — it's about creating opportunities for student success,' Joe Paul, president of USM, said in a press statement. 'By partnering with Pearl River Community College, we're building a direct and affordable route for students to continue their education and make meaningful contributions to our coastal communities.' The scholarship offers $5,000 annually to qualified PRCC transfer students, according to the press release. To qualify for the coastal scholarship students must meet the following criteria: Students must also enroll in at least 15 credit hours per semester, including a minimum of nine credit hours of face-to-face instruction on the Gulf Park campus, and maintain a 2.5 GPA to remain eligible. 'These pathways not only open doors for individual students but also have a significant economic impact on our coastal communities,' Adam Breerwood, president of PRCC, said in a statement. 'By investing in education, we are cultivating a skilled workforce that can contribute to local businesses and stimulate growth in various sectors.' For more information on the application process and eligibility, students are encouraged to visit the Gulf Park Coastal Pathways Scholarship website. ___ This story was originally published by Mississippi Today and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press.
The Star
23-07-2025
- Politics
- The Star
USM student body not taking part in July 26 rally, urges members to focus on final exams
KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Sains Malaysia's (USM) student body has announced that it will not be involved in the 'Turun Anwar' rally scheduled to take place this Thursday (July 26), here. In a statement on Wednesday (July 23), the USM Student Representative Council reaffirmed its commitment to remaining 'an independent, neutral, and inclusive body that serves all USM students regardless of political affiliation.' ALSO READ: Chief Secretary reminds civil servants not to join 'Himpunan Turun Anwar' While acknowledging the open invitation extended to university students nationwide to join the protest, the council said it respects the diversity of opinions among students, including differing views on national leadership and policies. However, it urged that all expressions of opinion be carried out respectfully, peacefully and within the law. 'We uphold the principle that every student has the right to express their views, whether in support of or against any party, provided it is done respectfully, peacefully, and through legal and proper channels,' the statement read. ALSO READ: 2,000 police personnel to manage July 26 public rally The council also highlighted that USM is in the midst of its final examination period and called on students to prioritise their academic responsibilities. 'We urge all USM students to remain focused and committed to their ongoing exams,' it added. The rally is scheduled to be held in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday (July 26).
