Congratulations: Mohamed Khaled (left) presenting the appointment letter to Abdul Rahman.
Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed is Universiti Sains Malaysia’s (USM) ninth vice-chancellor.
Effective from Jan 3, the University of Southern California chemical engineering graduate who holds a doctorate from the University of New Hampshire has taken the reins of the country’s only higher education institution to have been awarded the Accelerated Programme for Excellence (Apex) status.
Prior to the appointment, he had been the varsity’s deputy vice-chancellor (Research and Innovation) since May 1, 2018. He had earlier served as its deputy vice-chancellor (Industry and Community Networking).
Besides having extensive administrative experience, he is a well-respected researcher in the field of applied sciences and technologies, both locally and abroad, a statement from the Higher Education Ministry read.
“Abdul Rahman is the right man for the job.
“His appointment will strengthen the higher education sector and build a successful and sustainable future based on excellence.”
According to the varsity’s website, Abdul Rahman aims to boost the Apex agenda by continuing to assist the community through various efforts, including research and innovation.
The university, he reportedly told a press conference, would look into measures to accelerate the country’s development process and to assist the socio-economic transformation in the community.
“Focus will also be on efforts to raise the employability of graduates by providing the students with more exposure to industry, and to fulfil the requirements set by future employers,” he told the varsity’s official portal.
The future, he said, would see year-long training and internship opportunities, especially for engineering students so that they can implement impactful, long-term projects with the industry players.Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin presented Abdul Rahman with his letter of appointment on Dec 27.
