Dr Sheikh Muszaphar (second from right) receiving his appointment as adjunct professor at MIU from Prof Fitzsimmons (second from left).
MALAYSIAN astronaut Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor has been appointed adjunct professor at Manipal International University (MIU).
With the appointment, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar will act as adviser to the university’s engineering and biotechnology programmes.
There are three universities in Malaysia under the Manipal brand – MIU, MUCM and Manipal GlobalNxt University which offers online postgraduate studies.
MIU vice-chancellor Prof Dr Jason Fitzsimmons said the collaboration was part of the university’s efforts to empower fields that it believed were important for the future.
“This is also a key factor in guiding and inspiring students to continue with their studies, to explore opportunities and build careers.
“We are offering opportunities to ensure we will always have enough experts in the said areas,” he said.
The appointment is based on Dr Sheikh Muszaphar’s academic qualifications as a scientist and medical doctor in addition to being Malaysia’s first astronaut.
The selection also takes into account that he is part of the Manipal University alumni, having studied at Kasturba Medical College in India which is under the umbrella of the Manipal Education and Medical Group.
Prof Fitzsimmons said Dr Sheikh Muszaphar’s role as president of the National Astronaut Foundation (NAF) as well as his knowledge, experience and contributions to the country were factored in as well.
The foundation aims to highlight science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in line with efforts to guide the younger generation towards the development of these fields in Malaysia.
Dr Sheikh Muszaphar said he was grateful for the appointment, and was ready to shoulder the responsibility of motivating students to continue giving their best.
“The younger generation always needs guidance and encouragement.
“With the support of higher education institutions like MIU, it is hoped that we will always have enough skilled experts to lead the fields they are engaged in.
“I am grateful to my alma mater, Manipal Education and Medical Group, for giving me this opportunity to continue contributing my knowledge and experience to the younger generation,” he added.
In a move to promote the Manipal University brand, MIU also signed a memorandum of understanding with NAF.
Through the partnership, both parties will conduct activities to raise awareness, encourage more participation and create cooperation in the development of STEM.
This will include basic or advanced training as well as developing leadership training centres.
Prof Fitzsimmons represented MIU while Dr Sheikh Muszaphar signed the MoU on behalf of the foundation.
