2020 has been a very confusing year so far, especially for those who are looking to further their education in higher learning institutions. With restrictions imposed by the government to curb the spread of COVID-19, UTAR decided to yet again bring its Open Day online for the safety and convenience of the community. The Cyber Open Day was held from 8 August 2020 to 30 August 2020 and was opened from 9:00am until 5:00pm, except for public holidays. Over 5,000 visitors participated in the open day, while the page views exceeded 8,000 views.

In the very comfort of their homes, students and parents were able to experience UTAR’s campuses on virtual tours. Moreover, the Cyber Open Day provided information on the university’s academic programmes, course structures, career paths, entry requirements and scholarships.

Virtual booths, that served as a 24/7 Online Exhibition Hall, were also set up by UTAR faculties and service units on an online digital platform. Information was accessible to anyone at any time at their convenience through any devices, including mobile phones. This Online Exhibition Hall included introductory videos, facility viewing, information on programmes and faculties, application for scholarships and loans as well as registration for programmes. Payment for registration was accepted through online banking.

The Cyber Open Day was segregated to three themes, namely ‘Engineering, ICT and Physical Sciences Day’, held on 13 and 14 August 2020; Life, Medical and Health Sciences Day, held from 15 to 21 August 2020 and Business, Creative Industries and Social Sciences Day, which was held from 22 to 30 August 2020.

Webinars were held daily from 2:00pm to 3:00pm daily via Zoom and Facebook Live. Participants were given the opportunity to communicate with the speakers during the sessions and ask questions at the end of the session. A total of 22 webinars was held throughout the month.

As UTAR focuses on developing students academically while providing them with skills to enhance their contribution to the workplace and society, the University also ensures that it provides a holistic education for its students. The UTAR Department of Soft Skills Competency (DSSC) offers short programmes to equip students with the necessary soft skills and life skills to enhance their competitive edge in the job market. Hence, a webinar was also conducted by DSSC to introduce students and parents to the department’s role.

Live chats were also available for students to engage and interact with programme advisors. Enquiries on academic programmes and career guidance tests were also provided through live chat as UTAR staff and expert consultants provided detailed information and guidance. UTAR also held Career Guidance webinars on 9 August 2020, in English, and 15 August 2020, in Mandarin, for those who were still indecisive on what to study. Introducing different types of personalities, the webinars aimed to guide the prospective students in choosing a suitable programme.

In addition to that, UTAR’s ambassadors also held a sharing session on 18 August 2020 through a webinar. During the session, they shared tertiary students' life experiences in UTAR.