JASIN: Malaysian students in countries affected by the Middle East crisis can continue their studies at local higher education institutions (IPTs) if the situation requires, says Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir.
The Higher Education Minister said the government is open and prepared to place students, who are stranded or whose studies are affected, at local IPTs.
This, he said, is among the ministry’s preparedness measures to ensure the studies of affected students are not disrupted.
The measure is also open to those who have just received offers to study in the impacted countries, he added.
“If it happens, then space will be provided for them to continue their studies here, in accordance with their results, courses and educational background.
“Usually, we will discuss courses that can transfer credits based on the guidelines of the Malaysian Qualifications Agency so that students can continue their studies without having to repeat everything,” he added.
Zambry was speaking to reporters after attending a townhall programme of the Kembara Karisma Pemimpin Muda Madani Zon Selatan at the Jasin campus of Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) yesterday, Bernama reported.
Commenting further, he said bringing students back and placing them in local universities is not a new measure, and had been implemented previously, including during the Iran-Iraq conflict and involving Malaysian students in Kuwait.
“So far, there are no official figures on students as universities in the affected countries are still functioning as usual and the number, except for Jordan and Egypt, is relatively small.
“However, the ministry will be prepared and await feedback from students and educational institutions before any further action is taken,” he added.
