UTP Wins Two National Awards For Innovative Curriculum, Immersive Learning

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 7 (Bernama) -- Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) has once again proven its leadership in innovative education by emerging as champion in two categories at the Higher Education Minister’s Special Award: Innovative Curriculum Design and Delivery (AKRI) 2025.

UTP, in a statement today, said the prestigious event, officiated by the Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, recognises outstanding achievements in curriculum innovation and creative teaching delivery across Malaysian higher education institutions.

The first category UTP won was the Innovative Study Programme Curriculum, awarded to the Master of Science (MSc) in Drilling Engineering (by Coursework) led by Dr Dzeti Farhah Mohshim, with the programme recognised for its pioneering approach to curriculum design and close collaboration with industry partners.

It said that the unique structure integrated the latest industry practices, advanced technologies and problem-based learning approaches, thus ensuring its graduates are future-ready and globally competitive.

“This award is a reflection of UTP’s strong partnership with industry and our commitment to deliver education that is both rigorous and relevant.

“The MSc in Drilling Engineering programme bridges academic excellence with real-world application. It equips our students with practical expertise, leadership values and the adaptability needed to thrive in a rapidly changing energy landscape,” said Dzeti Farhah.

Meanwhile, Dr Muhammad Luqman Hasan triumphed in the Immersive Learning Experience (Blended Learning Category) with his project titled ‘Cooperative Game-based Learning with Gamification: Empowering First-Year Engineering Students Through Inclusive Engagement'. 

UTP said that his innovative project impressed the judges with its creative integration of cooperative learning, game dynamics and experiential engagement, adding that the approach significantly enhanced student participation, teamwork and performance, particularly among first-year engineering students.

“Education is most impactful when students are fully engaged in their learning journey. Through gamification and collaborative play, we reimagine the classroom as a space where creativity, inclusivity and discovery drive deeper learning and confidence among students,” said Muhammad Luqman.

UTP said that both Dzeti Farhah and Muhammad Luqman are from its Department of Petroleum Engineering.

UTP’s double win reaffirms the university’s position as a leader in engineering and technology education, highlighting its commitment to future-focused, industry-aligned programmes that nurture innovative and globally competitive graduates.

-- BERNAMA