UTAR Strengthens International Collaboration by Signing MoU and Student Exchange Agreement with GUST
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) has taken a step to enhance its international collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) and a student exchange agreement (SEA) with Guangdong University of Science and Technology (GUST). This signing ceremony took place on December 10, 2025, at UTAR’s Sungai Long Campus.
Delegation Attendance
Officials from GUST in attendance included President Prof. Liang Ruixiong, Assistant to the President and Academic Affairs Office Director Mr. Li Bing, and Dean of the School of International Education Dr. Gao Jiaqing. UTAR was represented by President Ir. Prof. Dato’ Dr. Ewe Hong Tat, along with notable faculty members such as LKC FES Dean Prof. Ts Dr. Yap Wun She and Department Head Ir. Prof. Dr. Chang Yoong Choon.
Welcoming Address by UTAR’s President
During the event, UTAR’s President, Prof. Dato’ Ewe, welcomed the GUST delegation and provided insights into UTAR’s development, highlighting an increasing student population, diverse program offerings, and favorable graduate employability rates. He mentioned UTAR’s extensive global network, which includes nearly 840 partnerships, with over 200 institutions located in China. The president expressed the intention for the MoU and SEA to enhance cooperation in academic exchanges and talent development.
GUST’s Perspective on Collaboration
Prof. Liang, in his address, noted the common values and objectives shared between UTAR and GUST. He referenced the similarities in their founding histories and educational missions, emphasizing GUST’s advantageous location in the Greater Bay Area, recognized for its technological and industrial significance. Prof. Liang expressed optimism about future collaborations in student training and joint research endeavors.
Details of the Agreements
The signed agreements formalize collaboration across various domains, including joint research initiatives, academic staff exchanges, student exchange programs, postgraduate opportunities, and industrial training initiatives. The SEA facilitates the exchange of both undergraduate and postgraduate students for durations ranging from a semester to a full academic year, with provisions for mutual recognition of credits and academic support for the participants.
Discussion and Conclusion
Following the signing ceremony, discussions were held between representatives of both institutions to identify potential collaborative initiatives. The event concluded with a group photo session and the exchange of souvenirs, signifying the commencement of a strengthened partnership between UTAR and GUST.
Source: UTAR News
