USIM launches 'Smart University Blueprint'

SEREMBAN, May 28  -- Recognising the importance of Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0), Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) today launched the ‘Smart University Blueprint’, spearheading efforts for more planned and comprehensive implementation of information communication technology (ICT) on campus.

USIM Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohamed Ridza Wahiddin said the university needed to upgrade its infrastructure and facilities based on the requirements at all its faculties and learning centres.

“Before the world was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, there were already major changes in terms of teaching and learning approaches and education systems in several universities in developed countries.

"They fully utilise ICT in the learning and teaching process. For example, students can get lecture notes via the internet without having to meet the lecturer, and get in touch via video conferencing or Skype," he said in a statement today.

He said countries that had just switched to the new method following COVID-19 faced major challenges, especially in terms of the students, teachers and stakeholders having to quickly adapt to the changes, besides other ICT constraints.

Mohamed Ridza said the blueprint included five clusters and 13 initiatives in mobilising the digital transformation effort at USIM, including emphasising the ‘Maqasid Syariah’ (objectives of the Syariah) and IR 4.0.

The five clusters are Smart Governance, Smart Infrastructure, Smart Services, Smart Learning and Smart Lifestyle while some of the initiatives include Cashless Campus, Smart Attendance, and Learning Space.

-- BERNAMA