By : Nedal Zubeidi
Jordan Daily – When a delegation of academic representatives from 14 Jordanian universities arrived in Malaysia last month, it wasn’t just about exchanging pleasantries or formalities. It was about laying the groundwork for a transformative partnership – one that could reshape how both countries approach higher education and research. From November 24 to 30, 2024, the delegation engaged deeply with the vibrant world of Malaysian academia, eager to build bridges that transcend borders.
The visit, part of the UniConnect Program organized by Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), took the group to some of Malaysia’s leading universities and to the heart of the country’s Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE).
For six days, the delegation toured seven universities, including Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU), University of Nottingham Malaysia, Management & Science University (MSU), UCSI University and International Islamic University Malaysia. At each stop, discussions revolved around one central theme: How can we work together to create more opportunities for our students and researchers?
Dr. Nidal F. Eshah, Vice President of Zarqa University, described the experience as “enlightening,” one that gave Jordanian institutions a rare opportunity to both showcase their strengths and learn from their Malaysian counterparts. “We were able to gain a thorough understanding of Malaysia’s universities, which allowed us to pinpoint opportunities for academic collaboration,” Dr. Eshah said. “The potential to foster future partnerships that benefit our students and faculty is enormous.”
But beyond the scheduled meetings and campus tours, something deeper was happening. There was a palpable sense of excitement- of possibility. Both countries share a deep respect for education, and this visit highlighted how much they have to offer each other.
Dr. Mohammed Abu Shquier, President of the Malaysian Universities Alumni of Jordan (MUAJ) reflected by saying” This initiative aims at enhancing research, student exchange, joint academic programs, and postgraduate opportunities through collaborative postgraduates programs.”
Dr. Abu Shquier, whose organization represents over 2,000 alumni of Malaysian universities living in Jordan, was particularly enthusiastic about the future of the partnership. Founded three years ago, MUAJ has been instrumental in bridging the educational and cultural gaps between the two countries. Over the years, its collaboration with EMGS and support from Education Malaysia Jordan (EMJ) and the Embassy of Malaysia have paved the way for countless Jordanian students to pursue higher education in Malaysia.
For the Jordanian delegation, the trip provided an invaluable chance to network, exchange ideas, and explore possibilities for future collaboration. Research partnerships were a hot topic, with both sides recognizing the power of pooling resources and expertise to tackle global challenges.
“By working together, we can make significant strides in research and innovation,” Dr. Abu Shquier explained. “We are looking to implement Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) efficiently to leverage the strengths of both Jordanian and Malaysian institutions.”
One university after another opened its doors to the Jordanian team, showcasing advanced facilities, diverse student bodies, and innovative research programs. These exchanges felt organic, driven by a shared desire to learn and grow. For Dr. Yousef Mohammad Jaradat, Vice Dean of Scientific Research at Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, the visit left a lasting impression.
“We were warmly welcomed by the Malaysian people,” Dr. Jaradat said, recalling how Malaysia’s hospitality underscored the strength of the connection between the two countries. “It really showed us the potential for deeper academic cooperation.”
The delegation’s packed schedule reflected their shared commitment to education on a global scale. They visited seven universities- each one offering a unique perspective on how Malaysia has built a higher education system renowned across Southeast Asia. The delegation was also impressed by the country’s commitment to research and innovation, areas that Jordan is eager to expand in.
For both countries, the collaboration promises to be more than just an academic exchange. It’s an opportunity to build lasting connections- cultural, educational, and personal. Through joint academic programs, research projects, and student exchanges, they hope to create a dynamic environment where knowledge flows freely across borders.
As the delegation returned home, they carried with them not only new ideas but also the excitement of what lies ahead. They now look forward to turning these initial conversations into meaningful partnerships that will shape the future of higher education in both Jordan and Malaysia.
For Dr. Eshah and his colleagues, the potential is limitless.”This visit will have a major effect on fostering academic and scientific collaboration, which will benefit the students’ prospects going forward,”he said.
