Raja of Perlis says universities must develop critical thinkers with strong character, not just provide knowledge, during USM convocation ceremony.
GEORGE TOWN: Universities must function as ecosystems that nurture thinking and build character rather than merely being places to acquire knowledge.
Universiti Sains Malaysia Chancellor Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalulail emphasised this role for higher education institutions during the university’s 63rd convocation ceremony.
He urged all parties to preserve traditions of excellence so universities remain respected centres of learning both nationally and internationally.
“Universities serve as platforms for knowledge and ethics, shaping critical thinking and guiding students with values of humanity and responsibility,” said the Raja of Perlis.
He noted that society expects expertise and wisdom from the educated amid economic pressures and complex global challenges.
“Graduates must step forward as universal thinkers and contributors of value, ensuring the knowledge they possess benefits society.”
Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin added that success represents a beginning rather than an endpoint for graduates.
“The knowledge and expertise gained must be guided by compassion, diligence, and a commitment to serving society.”
He officiated the first session of USM’s convocation at Dewan Tunku Syed Putra with Raja Perempuan of Perlis Tuanku Tengku Fauziah Almarhum Tengku Abdul Rashid also present.
During the ceremony, the chancellor conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Urban and Regional Planning on Petronas Property Adviser Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif.
He congratulated Maimunah for her significant contributions to urban planning and national development.
“She is a global figure in urban planning, the first Asian woman to lead the United Nations Human Settlements Programme,” he noted.
Maimunah previously served as UN assistant secretary-general and now advises on sustainable urbanisation and climate action.
The week-long convocation will see 9,347 graduates receiving their degrees and diplomas.
This includes 865 PhD recipients, 3,501 Master’s graduates, and 4,934 Bachelor’s degree holders.
