UTAR welcomes GXMU for a week long exchange programme

In an exciting cross-border collaboration, UTAR hosted 16 students and three staff members from Guangxi Medical University (GXMU), China, for a week-long Inbound Mobility Programme from 8 to 14 July 2024. This programme, focusing on research collaboration and postgraduate exchange, aimed at strengthening the ties between the two institutions and providing participants with a rich cultural and academic experience.

The GXMU group arrived at KLIA on 8 July 2024. They were warmly welcomed by the representatives from UTAR. Over the next seven days, they engaged in a series of activities designed to foster both academic and cultural connections.

The programme commenced with an opening and ice-breaking session at UTAR Sungai Long Campus, setting a positive tone for the days ahead. Participants had the opportunity to tour the university’s facilities, including the Library, M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Research Laboratory, Simulation Ward, Physiotherapy Centre, and TCM Centre, showcasing UTAR’s diverse facilities.

The next day, the focus shifted to academic collaboration with interactive research sessions between UTAR and GXMU postgraduate students. These sessions facilitated intellectual exchange and opened avenues for future collaborative research projects. The day also included postgraduate student exchange activities, where participants engaged in dynamic discussions that further strengthened ties between the two universities.

On 11 July 2024, GXMU students and staff visited UTAR Kampar Campus and UTAR Hospital. This visit was not only an opportunity to explore UTAR’s facilities but also a chance to appreciate Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage. A tour of the Tin Mining Museum and visits to local souvenir shops offered the visitors a taste of Kampar’s historical significance.

The programme continued with a Kuala Lumpur city tour, allowing the group to experience the bustling city life and iconic landmarks such as Batu Malai Sri Murugan Temple at Batu Caves, Central Market, Petaling Street, and Suria KLCC. This cultural immersion provided the visitors with cherished memories of Malaysia’s capital city.

On the penultimate day, the students and staff toured Putrajaya, Malaysia’s administrative capital. They marvelled at the beautiful Putra Pink Mosque and enjoyed a picturesque lake cruise, which offered stunning views of the city. The day concluded with leisure time at iOi City Mall, providing a blend of relaxation and entertainment.

The week-long programme wrapped up on 14 July 2024 with a warm send-off at KLIA. As the group departed, both universities reaffirmed their strong commitment to maintaining and expanding this fruitful partnership.

The success of this programme highlights the vital role of international collaborations in higher education. As UTAR and GXMU continue their joint efforts, this partnership promises to foster further academic exchanges and collaborative research initiatives, benefiting both institutions and contributing to the global academic community.