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The campaign's innovative approach aims to arm students with future-proof skills and a sense of purpose, in line with Malaysia's aspirations for a thriving, inclusive economy.
Heriot-Watt University Malaysia (HWUM) has launched its 'Driven by Purpose' campaign on 24 February 2024, a pioneering initiative set to recalibrate Malaysia’s higher education by fostering resilience and equipping students with skills essential for future success.
The Campaign's launch at the Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s campus in Putrajaya was attended by Yang Berhormat Datuk Technologist Mustapha Sakmud, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia, who commended the University for its commitment to educational excellence in harmony with the national educational agenda.
Central to the 'Driven by Purpose' Campaign is the adoption of 'Purpose-Driven Education' initiatives, which are designed to develop holistic purpose-driven leaders who excel academically while contributing to societal progress, echoing the ethos of Malaysia's MADANI vision.
Heriot-Watt University Malaysia has committed to embedding principles such as critical thinking, collaboration, communication, growth mindset, resilience, creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation into its curriculum.
Yang Berhormat Datuk Technologist Mustapha Sakmud, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia praised the initiative, noting, “Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s 'Driven by Purpose' Campaign exemplifies the Government’s vision for a transformative higher education system. It promotes a holistic educational approach, nurturing a sense of purpose among youth, which is vital for the country’s ambition to become an inclusive, high-income nation."
Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s Provost and Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the Campaign's synergy with holistic youth development, underscoring the role of purpose in education as a catalyst for fostering inclusivity and economic prosperity in Malaysia.
A key feature of the event was the 'Educational Excellence: A Purpose-Driven Education' panel discussion, where prominent figures such as Ms. Sian May (Head of School for The Alice Smith School, Datuk (Dr) Nora Abdul Manaf (Maybank Group Chief Human Capital Officer and Honorary Graduate of Heriot-Watt University), Professor Dato’ Dr. Andrew Mohanraj (Malaysian Mental Health Association President) and Professor Richard A. Williams (Principal & Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University) shared insights on the transformative power of purpose in education and its influence on personal and professional growth.
Interactive forums led by Professor Dato’ Dr. Andrew Mohanraj and Ms. Chua Chai Ping (Human Resources Director and Country Site Leader of Experian Malaysia) delved into the nexus of purpose, mental well-being, and career success, offering practical strategies for cultivating a purpose-driven mindset.
The exclusive 'Starting Young with Purpose' Principal Roundtable provided a dedicated platform for school leaders to discuss strategies for embedding purpose into the educational journey from an early age.
Additionally, simulation workshops like 'Campus Life Simulation' and 'Science and Business Explorace', hosted by Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, offered immersive learning experiences to help students realise their potential.
Professor Mushtak expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative effort, stating, "Uniting thought leaders and educators to champion purpose-driven education is crucial. It empowers our youth to mobilise their purpose into a positive impact on the world”.