Some 2,400 new students of UTAR Perak Campus got the rare opportunity to
meet and listen to some words of wisdom by Yang Berhormat Dr. Hou Kok Chong,
Deputy Minister of Higher Education at the University's Mass Call for May
2009 intake on 27 May 2009.
On arrival, Yang Berhormat Dr. Hou were received by Ir. Prof. Dato' Dr Chuah
Hean Teik, President of UTAR and University senior officials. He was given a
rousing welcome by the University students and staff who lined up at the
entrance.
The Mass Call, which is part of UTAR's tradition to welcome and solemnise
new students to be part of UTAR vibrant community, started with the
introduction of UTAR President and the senior officials, who are seated on
the stage, to the new students. This was followed by a speech by Yang
Berhormat Dr. Hou. In his highly motivating speech, Dr. Hou offered gems of
wisdom to the group of young and eager minds. He highlighted two important
aspects in the process of education, that is, firstly, education process
never stops throughout our lives and secondly, education is more than just
learning facts and professional skills.
Dr. Hou elaborated, "University education which you are entering now is only
a stage in the educative process - it is a very important stage but it is
certainly not the end. I am confident that UTAR will instil in you the
awareness and eagerness to learn and continue to learn throughout your
lives. UTAR provides many programmes to enhance lifelong learning through
numerous talks and courses organised by its Centre for Extension Education
and the many soft skills programmes organised by the University's Department
of Soft Skills Competency."
On learning beyond classroom, Dr. Hou said, "Education beyond learning facts
and skills will have major impact on your performance at work, your
contribution to society, your relationship with people and your approach
towards life in general. I would like to point out the necessity to use your
university days to be educated in other areas such as development of
communication and people skills, leadership and teamwork abilities,
integrity, creative thinking and positive attitude. This is by no means an
exhaustive list but a good indication of the many areas you could develop in
with the opportunity of a good education at UTAR."
Dr. Hou also encouraged the students to participate actively in numerous
projects in the University such as blood donations campaign, fundraising and
welfare activities and crime prevention programme to play their role in
contributing to the society. In conclusion, he urged the students to
maximize their learning opportunities at UTAR and make their university life
an enriching and wholesome experience.
The mass call ended on a positive note with the oath-taking ceremony where
students declared their pledge towards the University and the Nation as they
embark on the adventure of learning and discovery at UTAR.
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