Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has been appointed as Malaysia's Erasmus+ National Focal Point, inaugurating the Erasmus+ Malaysia Hub during the Ambassadors' Roundtable 2024, hosted by UTM's International Office. The event, titled "The Odes of Innovating Solutions: Transfiguring Globalization in Higher Education," was graced by Deputy Minister of Higher Education, YB Datuk Ts. Mustapha Sakmud, and featured a keynote address by His Excellency Mr. Michalis Rokas, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union to Malaysia. Rokas emphasized the significance of the Erasmus+ Malaysia Hub, highlighting its role in fostering bilateral relations between Malaysia and the European Union while addressing global challenges.
The establishment of the Erasmus+ Malaysia Hub is hailed as a crucial step in educational and cultural exchanges, fostering understanding and collaboration on sensitive global issues. With the backing of the EU and active engagement from various ambassadors, the hub aims to address existential challenges and promote international cooperation, marking a significant stride in global educational diplomacy.
Situated at UTM Kuala Lumpur, the Erasmus+ Malaysia Hub will act as a central hub for all Erasmus+ Malaysia related affairs, facilitating collaboration between universities and diplomatic missions in Malaysia. It will provide guidance and support to the higher education sector, aiming to enhance cooperation and mentorship opportunities.
UTM's Vice-Chancellor, Prof Datuk Ir Ts Dr Ahmad Fauzi Ismail, expressed gratitude for being designated as the Erasmus+ National Focal Point, viewing it as a remarkable honor for the institution. He emphasized the institution's commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation nationally and internationally.
Currently, UTM leads four Capacity Building in Higher Education actions and collaborates with 23 universities from nine countries on various Erasmus+ initiatives. The Vice-Chancellor encourages collaboration with other universities to enhance UTM's visibility in Erasmus+ initiatives.
