WITH the future being technology-driven, higher education providers are increasingly gearing up to equip the next-generation workforce with essential tech skills.
Prioritising this key area, the Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology (KLUST) recently launched its “Development Blueprint for an Applied Research University in the Digital Intelligence Era”, featuring the Education 5.0 framework.
KLUST board chairman Prof Chen Xiaoyun, who also serves as Anhui Lvhai Vocational College of Business chairman in China, said the blueprint reflects the varsity’s commitment to future-focused education.
“We will prioritise smart technologies, green energy and digital transformation, creating an innovation ecosystem that fuses industry, academia, research and application. Our goal is to become Asean’s central hub for digital talent and technological excellence,” he said in a press release.
He added that the varsity’s future will revolve around three strategic pillars: digital foundations, intelligence-driven innovation, and artificial intelligence (AI) empowerment.
“In this era of expanding Belt and Road cooperation, KLUST is committed to becoming a vital bridge for Malaysia-China educational collaboration, fostering premier platforms for academic exchange and technological innovation,” he said.
The blueprint was unveiled during a rebranding ceremony that officially marked the institution’s name change from Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL) to KLUST.
KLUST president and vice-chancellor Prof Dr David Ngo Chek Ling affirmed the varsity’s aim to become the heart of regional technological education.
“We will transform our curriculum, deepen industry-academia collaborations, and nurture a new generation of tech leaders – masters of AI, trailblazers in green technology, and global citizens ready to tackle the grand challenges of our time,” he said.
During the event, which was witnessed by dignitaries including Chinese Embassy Minister Zheng Xuefang, KLUST announced key appointments to its board of governors.
These included Prof Tan Sri Datuk Dr Ghauth Jasmon, who will support its transformation into a research-driven institution; Prof Dr Premkumar Rajagopal, who will guide innovation and academic excellence; and Chong Nam Rong, who will align the varsity’s direction with market needs.
