Part II

Having seen many with their application peppered by the concoctions what educational recruiters may purports to be the PERFECT extra curricular resume, I became even more cautious. Every University may receive the same application, yet every Admission Officer, will will draw its very own conclusions.. The odds are minimal for students to know what exactly an Admission Officer really wants. Therefore, one 'size' does not fit all. All the more annoying, when certain students take it easy for the believe 'certain University' are easier to enter, as against the rest.

I tend to look into the student who have a learning style compatible to with their ways of teaching, and obviously, the ratio of international students population as well as the University environment. Depending on the nature of the University (there are 10 Institution that I am responsible of), I am looking at either students will do well in seminars or large lectures classes or group collaboration projects. My University may also want students who excel in essays or students who can master challenging exams.

My main job, is to evaluate talents, backgrounds, experiences and skills in the context of a students life and what was available to him or her. Although this is indeed very subjective in nature -'who we are, and where we work, do affect what we see'. Being a Asian/Oriental, having lived in Europe, I see things over that ' European Side', and understand the predicament of a local applicants. It is not perfect, but a perfect human processes. In my search for the authentic student, I trust that intuition, along with data. (this formula even applies for job applicants). To paraphrase former Supreme Court of Justice 'Potter Stewart' (admittedly addressing a different subject0, "I know it when I see it". Authenticity, which includes Honesty, Integrity, Dilligent are all matters. Who they are when they are students will define, what they will be like, when they work for others..

In search of Authentic Students (Part 1)

It is never easy these days to really know whether a choice of study or programme is decided by parents or the students themselves. It is always annoying when students are lackadaisical with their own application. In MPEC, students may occasionally be required to answer written questions, and some students were very literal in the answers, which of course can irritate people like me by such cryptic answer.

Although it may seem mysterious, the admission process is actually straightforward. It is about finding relationship that will work. In this case, the Admission Officer i.e. Director of Studies, will have to look for prospecting partners before committing for something long term. As true be it, perfect behaviour on the 1st date (interviews or application papers) may lead to a 2nd chance, but ultimately ultimately the real person is revealed and that revealation indicates whether a happily-ever-after experience lies ahead.

Students giving me cryptic answer are not actually being judged by me, many students have talents blossoming but not yet ripened. In others, talents are present and shown clearly. Therefore, I generally know that all the Universities are not expecting and fundamentally do not - exist for the sole purpose of educating already knowledgeable people.

Although a student academic records may not be 'that' impressive, however, I do look into references, and if the references are specific in their praise, that is honesty and transparency to me. Each and every application is a mystery and a puzzle to solve. Therefore, I am duty bound to transmit correct messages about what I hope to see in candidates. Students and Counsellors do struggle to read between the trend lines. I always hope that students are doing the right thing for the right reason. Only yesterday, I responded a to 15 year old, wishing to study abroad, and the hilarious part is, when the reason of the select country has nothing to do with the place of study. Now, that is really an ambigous objective. Therefore, I always have this quandary; how to distinguish a commitment to study from the simple desire to travel / work abroad.

Most of the time, I have to become Personality Detectives, because so far, most of the students, tend to have hidden agenda, and some tend to have ulterior motives. I even have a student who ask for refund for his application, after the University has issued him, the acceptance letter and the very same student was complaining to the Embassy saying that, he does not plan to continue his education, but again, he wanted to keep his Acceptance Letter.

How do Director of Studies like me, sort out genuine students from the image essentially manufactured for admissions purposes? It is a process that is part critical reading, part common sense and part intuition. Perhaps, I do overlook this 'dodgy' applicant, for when I was entrusted with this responsbility, my aim was to ensure, education for everyone. However, this noble objective of mine, eventually abused by students. I have to look for subplots, and the obvious unexpected twists. Stories in applications told from multiple points of view (which made it all the more harder for me to believe) are woven together in big picture.

As with any story, I will look into credibility and ultimately, genuineness. I want to understand the context of a student's life as I read and work hard to level the field for those who do not have any help in writing their application. Those who have had 'helpers', I personally see that as a misconstrued of facts, or plain 'cheating'.

Hadiah Nobel - Bilakah Malaysia?

Hadiah Nobel merupakan penganugerahan yang diberikan kepada individu atau pertubuhan yang telah melakukan penyelidikan ulung serta menghasilkan penemuan yang dapat memberi sumbangan kepada masyarakat. Sejak diperkenalkan tahun 1901, anugerah tersebut yang dicetuskan oleh saintis terkenal Alfred Nobel telah dibahagikan kepada beberapa kategori penerima seperti sains, psikologi dan perubatan, keamanan dan ekonomi.

Untuk kategori sains, seramai 238 ilmuan sains telah menerima anugerah berkenaan dimana 184 orang daripadanya terlibat dalam bidang fizik dan 154 orang lain untuk bidang kimia.

Hadiah-hadiah tersebut dikurniakan dalam satu upacara rasmi yang diadakan pada 10 Disember setiap tahun di Dewan Konsert Stockholm, Sweden.

Penerima anugerah akan membawa pulang sebutir pingat emas, diploma, dan wang tunai kira-kira USD 1.3 juta

(Sumber : estidotmy, utusan malaysia, 26 November 2008)

Merujuk kepada sumber diatas, mengingatkan saya akan 'presentation' yang disampaikan oleh Dekan Fakulti Perubatan, University of Szeged, yang merupakan Universiti yang turut tersenarai didalam ranking Eropah. Didalam presentation tersebut, beliau telah memaklumkan kepada hadirin (yang turut melibatkan seorang Dekan, dari sebuat Kolej Universiti Perubatan, (Swasta) Tempatan, yang telah diiktiraf oleh Kementerian), bahawa mengikut tarikh terkini, Hungary telahpun memiliki seramai 12 Penerima Anugerah Nobel. Professor Szabo, memaklumkan tanpa sebarang niat tersirat, cuma menyampaikan fakta. Sekiranya kita membaca artikel diatas, makanya pasti pembaca akan memahami mengapa, Professor Szabo menyebut akan Anugerah Prestij tersebut.

Sebagai pengiring Prof Szabo, didalam lawatan ke Malaysia, saya bagaimanapun merasa amat malu, dengan kesombongan Dekan dari Kolej Universiti tersebut. Semenjak dari awal, Dekan tersebut, seolah-olah cuba mencari kesilapan dan kelemahan University Szeged. Sehingga ke hari ini, pihak kami, masih tercari-cari, dimana silapnya, sehingga Dekan (juga seorang Dato') tersebut 'berangin'. Pepatah Melayu, mengatakan' orang berbudi, kita berbahasa', makanya, tiada alasan di pihak kami untuk memejamkan mata, diatas keangkuhan Dekan tersebut. Bagaimanapun, pihak kami hanya berdiam diri, memandangkan kami hanya tetamu

Sewaktu kami melawat sekitar kampus tersebut, Prof Szabo bertanyakan 2 perkara kepada saya, iaitu, bagaimana, seorang Dekan, boleh dipertanggungjawabkan kepada Fakulti Perubatan, Pergigian dan juga Farmasi, serentak. Sekiranya ini boleh berlaku, maka akan berlaku kompromi dari segi kualiti. Soalan kedua beliau ialah samada program tersebut diiktiraf, dan Professor Szabo juga terkejut apabila 'Pemilik' Kolej Universiti tersebut, menyatakan, bahawa Hotel 5 Bintang akan dibina, bersebelahan kampus tersebut. Bagaimanapun, pihak kami bersyukur kerana 'pemilik' tersebut tidaklah seangkuh Dekan yang bekerja dengan beliau.

Saya sudah menyatakan bahawa, Kolej Universiti tersebut (walaupun didalam iklan, perkataan Kolej tersebut dikecilkan, secara sengaja, dan perkataan Universiti diwar-warkan), telah pun diiktiraf oleh pihak Kementerian, Prof Szabo hanya mampu mengelengkan kepala, dan berkata kepada saya, kualiti sesebuah Universiti hanya akan terbukti setelah graduannya berjaya didalam perkhidmatan sebagai seorang doktor. Melihatkan kepada sistem yang diterimapakai oleh Kolej Universiti tersebut, dan masih belum menghasilkan generasi graduan perubatan, masih ada kira-kira 3 tahun lagi, Prof Szabo berkata, beliau tidak akan sekali-kali rela dirawat oleh graduan dari 'menara gading' tersebut. Saya hanya senyum, dan berkata, beliau tidak perlu risau kerana Universiti beliau sendiri, mempunyai ratio 1:1 (Jabatan Perkhidmatan Awam & Malaysian Medical Council menekankan kepada 1:8), dan kualiti pelajarnya membolehkan mereka diterima di UK, serta boleh berkhidmat di California, Amerika. Maka adalah tidak mungkin, Prof Szabo akan ke Malaysia untuk mendapatkan rawatan, hatta sekecil mana sekalipun.

The "wonder kid" of the European Union

Hungary is located in the Centre of Europe, sharing its borders with the Ukraine & Romania in the East, Austria & Croatia in the West, Slovakia in the North & Yugoslavia in the South; enjoys phenomenal rise in economic growth after and development afterit embraced democracy and free trade policies in 1989. Since then, it has been receiving a steady flow of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and is today one of the High-Income Countries in Europe. It enjoys strong trade, fiscal, monetary, investment, business and labour freedom.

After joining the European Union (EU), in May 2004, Hungary can currrently boast a having attracted FDI of more than 60.0 billion, which represents the higher percapita in the Central Eastern European Region. Hungary has been focusing intensely on the introduction of advanced technology and innovation into production of goods representing higher added value. The Hungarian Government places greater importance on investment in the automotive sector, research and development, ICT, Biotechnology, Shared Services Operations & Logistics. Currently there are more than 30,000 companies including foreign companies in Hungary. In 2007, Malaysia was ranked as the 2th import source for Hungary with value amounted to 368.0 million. Hungary's main imports from Malaysia were electrical machinery, plastics, optical products and furniture.

(Source : trademart, A MATRADE Publication for Malaysian Exporters). The picture above is Wan Azhamuddin Jusoh, Malaysian Trade Commissioner in Budapest, HUNGARY.

I have been involved with 'Invisible Exports' for my country, Malaysia & ASEAN region, with Hungary 'the wonder kid in the EU' products' i.e. Education. It is fascinating that the export value has increase, and I sincerely hope it will get further. I am equally surprise to find this article in trademart. I believe, I have the right to point out, that when I was appointed by Hungarian Authorities, nobody in Malaysia, has ever been aware of the existence of Hungary, let alone, to know its valuable 'invisible exports'. The idea of even suggesting to explore its opportunities was brush aside, without second thoughts. As for MATRADE, yes, it is about the inflow of income i.e. Malaysian exports abroad, however, to reflect on Human Capital development, I believe, to have professionals trained there, and return home, will be good for the country, if at all Malaysia is focus on Human Capital, besides, it will be at a lower cost, compared to certain existing countries where our students are currently helping the economies there, especially when certain other countries do have 'protectionism', and of course, 'price discrimination'. Hopefully, we not only look, but really see Hungary.

"How I hope, we are thinking what I think, we should be thinking!"

Undergraduate , Graduate Applicants

Over the last couple of years, MPEC Edulink, has been inundated with many postgraduate applicant. I am fully knowledgeable of the fact that, the current policy is for research student to go internship or attachment in a Non-English Speaking Country. I remembered being visited by 2 students from UPM (Universiti Putra Malaysia) among many others, in a wide range of fields, from Biotechnology into many other branches. Eventually, one of them, ends up in Italy, and another one, was trying (I am not sure he made it) to a nearby English speaking country. MPEC do believe, it is their liberty to decide where they want to study, however, please be sure, and confirmed on their commitment to study.

It is wise for students to come to see me with their research proposal, or if they are already attached to a University, please at least name the Institution, and to what level. It is well understood by us here, as Homme d'Affaires of such need, but again, students will do a lot of help by being more transparent. We do accept enquiries, and all the more welcome GENUINE INTEREST. After all, if the students are planning to study abroad, then of course, they are aware of the cost of living etc, and if they are funded, all the more MPEC welcomes them, for it ensures quality students. At present I do receive an applicant wishing for an attachment, and he prefers for a 12 months period in University of Pécs. I would recommend him to go early, the faster MPEC receives the document, for processing, the better it would be. If at all, my colleague there is unable to accept him, then, MPEC will be able to suggest to him something more viable.

I hope it will enlighten up more students to understand how serious MPEC views each application. It is indeed heartening to know, more and more, from Malaysia are keen on their PostGraduate education in Hungary. I have yet to receive any from Singapore, though I did receive a few from Indonesia before. It is in our standard procedure, for anyone interested to enter any Institution, to apply and register with MPEC, irregardless whether the student is applying for Undergraduate or a Post – Doctoral Researcher. It is essential to keep update on the student / future students progress.

Therefore it is a grave necessity for the students to send a letter from their sponsor addressing MPEC EDULINK stating that, the sponsoring organization will be funding the student’s education or research, this letter from their sponsor should come together with the student’s own formal application.

Prospek Ekonomi & Pasaran Modal

Ekonomi dunia dijangka berkembang pada kadar lebih rendah di paras 3.90% pada tahun2009 berbanding perkembangan sebanyak 4.10% pada tahun 2008 (Sumber : International Monetary Fund). Kenyataan IMF memberikan pandangan yang amat berbeza berbanding dengan apa yang kita sangkat selama ini. Unjuran ekonomi Malaysia, mempunyai 2 jangkaan berbeza sebelumnya, dan yang terkini adalah dijangka pada kadar 5.040% mengikut sumber BNM. Antar faktor yang dikenalpasti adalah perlaksanaan projek dibawah Rancangan Malaysia Kesembilan seperti "IDR". Bagaimanapun, seperti biasa, kita akan mendengar bahawa sungguhpun keadaannya adalah sebegini, tetapi kenyataan biasa seperti asas-asas ekonomi masih kukuh kerana lebihan akaun semasa dan juga rizab asing yang besar. Maka dengan itu, adalah menjadi harapan saya, unjuran tersebut kekal, bagaimanapun, kenyataan Timbalan Perdana Menteri, selepas pulang dari APEC, juga memberi kisah yang berbeza akan prospek ekonomi bagi 2009. Adalah menjadi harapan saya supaya semuanya sempurna.

Admission Requirements for Higher Education

According to the Higher Education Act, admission to Bachelor’s degree programmes and unified, undivided, long-term Master’s degree is selective, with the Secondary School Leaving Certificate or its foreign equivalent as a prerequisite for admission with a few exception where practical examinations or aptitude tests are also required. The minimum requirement for admission to Master’s Degree Programmes is a Bachelor’s Degree or its equivalent. Higher Education Institutions may link admission to Master’s and Doctoral Programmes to additional criteria.

I have to stress on the need to provide the Secondary School Certificate because, only then, I will be able to validate the authenticity of the applicant. This will have to include copies of the relevant A-Level, IB or is equivalent. Under normal circumstances, students will have to sit for Entrance Examination, which is to be conducted in Kuala Lumpur. In order to ensure, that all qualified students are able to sit for the Examination. I will require early application and accepted registration by MPEC. There has been on many occasion where student are not sure, whether they really want to go. For those in such circumstances, please feel free to telephone us to discuss this matter, before ensuring, that all arrangement has been made.

The Hungarian Higher Education System

In response to questions, on the system of education by a significant number of parents, students and teachers. I have decided to publish this in my blog, so as to ensure, that, it will be much more clearer to the enquirers.

Hungary has been taking part in the Bologna Process since 1999, whose most important goal is the creation of the European Higher Education Area. With effect from 1^st of September 2006, the new Bologna regime two-cycle degree system has been introduced. The 1^st degree programmes (3 to 4 years) lead to Baccalaureus / Bachelor’s degrees, while 2^nd degree programmes (1 to 2 years) lead to Magister / Master’s degrees. Unified, undivided, long term Master’s degree programmes (5 to 6 years) are offered in 17 fields of study (e.g. in Human Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Veterinary Medicine, Architecture and in the fields of Arts). All Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees grant access to the labour market. Based on a Magister / Master’s degree or its foreign equivalent, PhD or Doctor of Liberal Arts (DLA) degrees as 3^rd cycle degrees can be awarded after 3 years of study.

In addition to the degree programmes described above, Higher Education Institutions offer non-degree programmes too, such as higher-level vocational trainings, postgraduate specialist training courses based on a 1^st of 2^nd degree as well as summer Universities and partial training in the framework of lifelong learning education.

Higher Education Programmes may be offered in full-time training or distance learning courses.

Hungarian Higher Education History

The Hungarian Higher Education has a long history. The 1st Hungarian University was founded in Pecs in South Hungary over 600 years ago, in 1367. Hungarian Higher Education Institution are autonomous, state or non-state (private & religious) Institutions recognised by the state. There are 72 Higher Education Institutions in Hungary (18 State Universities, 13 State Colleges, 41 non-state Universities & 34 non-state colleges. MPEC is proud to state our appointment for the 10 state Universities as homme d'affaires..

Science & Technology

It is prudent, for students to know the reason why they are interested in science and technology. Since, if the students are in it for fameand glory, I fear, they are in for the wrong reason, but if they are in to it because of plain love with certain expertise and want to know, then, these students are on the right track.

There will be discourse, that such a pursue may still be feasible, but I reckon it is on the ethical issues. That is my concern..

University of Pécs

MPEC has received its list of fees and programme. I am glad to admit that, although there seems to be an oncoming economic crisis, University of Pécs has not really has an excessive increase of fees. Our 4 weeks of Preparatory course for is around $1,200. Therefore, it is still fundamentally reasonable as compared to others. It will be a 6 hours a day, for 5 days in a week from the 3rd of August till 28th of August , 2009, which is the summer period. It was a sunny summer last year, so, I guess it is a very nice time this coming summer (although I know Christmas is not here yet). I am pleased that University of Pécs is offering fundamental subjects of the first semester such as Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Well, I guess I forgot to mention the BIG WORD. It is a Preparatory Course - English for Medical Purposes. , which means, the eligibility for General Medicine and Dentistry is wide open.

University of Pécs has informed MPEC that it is for students who would like to refresh their high school knowledge in the subjects before the semester begins..

Any takers?...

Deflation

It has been agreed by those who disagreed if the world economy is heading a gloomy future. However, it remains to be seen, until, anyone knows for sure, what is it really going to be like. Talking about the economy, I have to wonder, if deflation will happen. The norm of the people are so accustomed towards inflation. But, what if the opposite happens? How will it affect parents, whose genuine wish is to have the children study abroad. Will there be any future for their childen, or they will be affected by the wait and see attitude of the economy, and therefore, a brake for further education. I shudder thinking of it..

Credo quia absurdum

How could I forget on the 27th of November, at the posh PICC, for the historical moment for the lauching of the National Higher Education Strategic Plan. The noble idea, which as stated "the need for a shift in the growth trajectory with stronger emphasis on 'endogenous innovation' and 'harmonious development' etc etc....

The whole beautifully articulated expression is seems marred by the even, with issue of the VC of UM. I wonder where is the future heading actually...

Please, Cogitationis poenam nemo patitur

It can never and should never be denied

Socrates, in Plato's "APOLOGY"

'It has been my fixed principle to speak the truth', as Socrates puts it, and the adage ' Honesty is the best policy' - it is just a thought, why is it so hard to tell the truth, but it is easier to tell a lie? I have been dealing with 'powers that be', and yesterday during my meeting with Professor Shamsul of UKM, it dawn on me,that perhaps ignorance is bliss. What more can I say, I am thankful to Prof Shamsul for enlightening me on this, how can this be truer, after so many years, why do I say so many years? Machiavelli's observations remains as true today as they were in 16th Century Florence. Across the world, politicians still break their promises and lie to the people (though there are good ones) atrocities are still committed (either physically or psychologically)... I am just pondering..

As Homme d'affaires

Can an Institution sell education? Or what does it really deals with? It is interesting to note that perhaps, the idea of being accepted is something that has to do with being able to afford the tuition fees. However, knowledge cannot be bought, not matter at what price, and to acquire knowledge requires discipline, and again, can graduate (fresh), really think outside the box. I like to quote what I heard while watching TV. The person being asked by the host said - people change, but again, it is all within the same landscape, therefore, if the landscape is the same i.e. University, will therefore means, all graduates will have linear thinking along the same path? Perhaps, but, then this is when, the really 'thinking' graduates be able to be excellent employee in the work place. In any country that I lived in, there will always be people having a pro towards certain things, these are all value based, however, values change based on the society, therefore, can there be such thing as better than the other? I hope it will not go to that extreme supremacy..

Congratulations President - Elect Obama

As many others, I wish to congratulate Barack Obama, for his victory for the Presidency of the United States of America. I do hope that the US Public Policy will change, if not a major one, at least a minor one. Many years ago, when I just young and naive, I was put on a plane, to do my research in Ohio. It was something, that I look forward to, little did I realise that it will be a nightmare. Upon arriving in Philadelphia, I was stopped at the airport, and because some documentation issue, I was really close to be sent back (mind you, I was then living in London, not Kuala Lumpur), which makes it even more difficult to explain to Immigration, why a Malaysian like me, is entering the US from London, nevertheless thanks to George ( Cleveland State University), and many others, it really make me enjoy my stay there. I do hope, that preconceived ideas such as names etc, will not be used to prejudge people. Hopefully, with Barack Obama in power, it may change something. Once again, I wish all the best and hopes that things will change for the better.

2 countries divided by the same language

For us who has been and lived in the UK or the US are probably aware of this statement, reminds me during the short chat I had with my friend Mike in Liverpool, while waiting for the Theatre “ Dangerous Liaison” to start. I was in US just a year earlier, before I was ‘stationed’ in Liverpool, duh..

But, I am not going to start rambling about US and UK being divided by the same language, but it is here, right here at home (to me, ie Kuala Lumpur), and right next door, i.e. Jakarta, while I was there for only 2 days, and I spoke to so many people in Jakarta of so many different descent, like the Javanese, Acehnese, Batavian, Bandungnese (is there such thing ;-). An interesting scenario, it is however, surprising that neither Malaysian nor Indonesian are seeing it as ‘divided by the same language’ – which I must say to be a positive statement. Though, I must say it is weird with the existence of 2 divisive opinion at both end of the spectrum, either it is ‘similar but not the same’, or it is ‘a completely alien language’ to each other. But again, the leaders in both countries, used to have the expression of ‘serumpun’, If it is ‘serumpun’, why do then, certain fractions of the population are seeing it as ‘alien language’? As an individual, I have to learn certain languages throughout my line of work, I have to have appreciation, without prejudices, for instance, I cannot say ‘this language is harsh’ or ‘noisy’, it is just plain disrespectful. I have to be in it. As Professor Shamsul Amri from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia uses the word ‘assimilate and unite’, that is exactly what I need to do in each and every homes, in each and every country I lived. But, then again, where does one draw the line, without losing identity, I am not able to define it scientifically, but I know, where are my boundaries. As the Malay proverb describe ‘Ibarat menarik rambut dalam tepung, rambut jangan putus, tepung tidak berselerak’. Reminds me, once more, when I was the only ‘Bumi’ in Tuanku Abdul Rahman College, it was awesome, I have learnt about assimilation, right there, and I must say thanks to all my lecturers for being so supportive. I have learnt that me and other Tarcian, are divided by the same policy, funny huh, they thought, being Bumi is a privilege, and I thought a non-Bumi will have no financial worries ( I was naïve then), It is indeed a very true, hands on understanding. Makes me wonder, why some people reject the ‘Vision School’ concept or the ‘PLKN’. I pity Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye then for all the obstacles. Something that is so noble, but again, people tend to be emotional and did go to extreme length. Who is at fault actually? Are we, Malaysian, a really matured society? If yes, what are the evidence, if no? Why on earth, no one is doing something seriously. After reading, UKM News – I must say, I am glad there are people in this planet that sees this things seriously, and I am heartened to read the statement, ‘we don’t work for prizes, but for the society’.

Lastly, in terms of being divided by the same language, I always cherish those moments, when 3 of my friends, kept to their dialect (Hokkien, Hakka & Cantonese) while talking to each other, and yet remain fully understood. I found that amazing, it just shows, how important language is to break barriers.. Therefore, once again, I fail to understand, why there is again so much objection for the Science and Math being taught in English. It will help to contribute more for than harm (what is so wrong about being at least bilingual?). What I do object is, the changing and translation of street names in Penang. Now, that is really out of this world. After all, this is Malaysia, I have never seen anything similar along the streets in London? or even when I was in Jeddah, Moscow, Prague, or in Nagoya (and of course, Jakarta, my newest addition) or anywhere in this world. So, please, be realistic about getting political mileage.

Asiaone Education - Article

I could not help my self from either to smile or pity these students who paid, $13,000 - $19,000 perhaps from their life saving or loans, for an 'American' Degree & Post Graduate Degree', with a pompous celebration, only to find out later that it is 'unaccredited University' from Panama. I am just wondering how this could have happen, from our experience with student that MPEC Edulink counselled, As the DoS (Director of Studies), I am always answering questions (whether I like it or not) on accreditation, it is a cardinal rule, matter of factly speaking, for anyone to pursue higher degree. Therefore it could be either ignorance (highly unlikely) or because of its name? -a brand myopia, no pun intended, but again, this is not even an American Institution, so the crux of the issue goes back to the student, students should have known 'Frontis nulla Fides' . It is intriguing, however, to read it happening in Singapore.

However, do remember :-
If these students needed to have a degree (which is obvious, and who am I trying to kid?) and these students did learn something, from this Institution, and are 'developing their potential', then by all means, go ahead. It is fair to them for being given the opportunity, it is something noble, isn't it?

However, if this is about 'paper chase' and contributing to the fact that "At least two American states have outlawed degrees from WCU, describing it as a 'degree supplier' that offers 'fraudulent or substandard degrees'. That is what concerns me most..

My last word is 'makejang saba hada' (if you do not know what it means, then ask someone from Bali..)

http://www.asiaone.com/News/Education/Story/A1Story20081024-95917.html

To my commentator - on New Europe, New World, my statement is 'neither do I', thanks

2010 , European Capital of Culture

A Hungarian writer, Gyorgy Konrad, once described, “ A great city is one that we visit with pleasure.” It is indeed holds true, during my trip to Pecs last September, I am simply captivated by its beauty, and the warmth of its people. Thanks to my colleagues from Pecs University, for being really nice and hospitable. The lunch was great, it was Ramadhan, but since I had a fever, and have to take my medicine…

Prof Ferenc, took us for a walk, all over the city, and I amazed that the building, which is a church and a mosque together in one. It reminds me of Hagia Sophia, and when we went to the top of a hill, once again, I am surprised that I could see Croatia, which is yojana (a Balinese word that means : the distance the eye can see)..I promised Prof Ferenc that I will ensure, more Asian to be exposed to this beauty and its uniqueness, after all, it is such a waste not to let the world know about such beauty. The pictures are available on my space ; Mista Najieb, Cheers..

What is Aerospace Engineering?

AEROSPACE engineering is the branch of engineering behind the design, construction and science of aircraft and spacecraft. Aerospace engineering has broken into 2 major and overlapping branches: aeronautical engineering and astronautical engineering. The former deals with craft that stay within Earth’s atmosphere, and the latter deals with craft that operates outside of Earth’s atmosphere.

While ‘Aeronautical’ was the original term, the broader aerospace has superseded it in usage, as flight technology advanced to include craft operating in outer space.

Aerospace engineering is often informally called ROCKET SCIENCE.

Modern flight vehicles undergo severe conditions such as differences in atmospheric pressure and temperature or heavy structural load applied upon vehicle components. Consequently, they are usually the products of various technologies including aerodynamics, avionics, materials science and propulsion.

These technologies are collectively known as aerospace engineering. Because of the complexity of the field, aerospace engineering is conducted by a team of engineers, each specializing in their own branches of science. The development and manufacturing of a flight vehicle demands careful balance and compromise between abilities, design, available technology and costs.

Bauman Moscow State Technical University (BMSTU), founded in 1830 is a leading University as a Centre of Higher Education & Research Engineering. Professor N.E. Zhukovsky, the "Father of Russian Aviation" is the founder of BMSTU School of Engineering Mechanics & Aerodynamics. At present there are over a 100 scientific schools in BMSTU not to forget, that 9 BMSTU graduates are became COSMONAUTS. That basically reflect the status enjoyed by BMSTU graduates.

Shanghai Jiao Tong 2008 Ranking

Finally I am able to convince myself to accept and acknowledge the University ranking for this year, although there will be Universities Rectors and VC (whose University did not make it in the listing, either this list or the other) by saying ranking is not the only determinant, I do beg to differ, so to say, that Eotvos Lorand, Budapest is in the ranking. As the Director of Studies, I have to say, I am really pleased..Hopefully it will at least clear if not a lot, at least some ambiguities. Still, I can never forget, one of the most popular statement mentioned by one of my colleague, when I was living in London "it is impossible to please all of the people, all of the time..", how could I ever forget that..

2006 (Bangkok), 2007 (Kuala Lumpur), 2008 (Jakarta)

Every year the Higher Education Council in the European Union will organise its annual exhibition, within this region, South East Asia. I am glad during the 2006 exhibition, MPEC - University Albert-Szent Gyorgi in Szeged, sent the Dean of the Medical Faculty, Prof. Szabo to be in Bangkok, and he did include Kuala Lumpur in his trip to the region, through the initiative from Budapest, MPEC was able to push forward the existence of this world renowned University, and hopes that local Asian will be able to have an additional option if not advantage for another destination for tertiary education. The fair in Kuala Lumpur, last year, I must admit, Malaysians are still very obsessed with 'premium' countries. I have no idea on what to expect in Jakarta, but, it is part of my job to ensure, I am keeping track of the progress. Ironically, this will also be my very first trip to Jakarta, Indonesia, as the saying goes 'so near yet so far'. Having been from Siberia in Russia to Pennsylvania in America, from Mecca to Nagoya, I will finally set foot to a neighbouring country. Nevertheless I am looking forward to it. Jakarta, here I come...

New Europe? New World?

During my most recent trip in to Budapest recently, I had a short stop over in London. Met good old friends who are Londoners.. They were asking me, how is the situation in South East Asia, and whether there is any positive development. Well, so unfortunate for my friends in England, they are jobless, and looking at todays news, does not sound promising either, it seems like everywhere in the world. It reminds me, what happen to all the hype of Greater Europe, the European Union, can't is sustain the global crisis. Well, it seems there is just no such immunity, I went through the painful period in 97, when the 'Tiger Economies - Malaysia, Indonesia, HK & South Korea included' were losing its grip, thank God, the situation improved, and hopefully, people learnt, I mean here in South East Asia, after all, as the saying goes 'History repeats Itself', so, it is prudent to be careful.

Now, how does that affect students, I am curious to know the current policy of education budget, knowing for a fact what happened in 97, only for those pursuing 'critical subject' will be given priority i.e. scholarship & study loans. Logically, then, shouldn't these students then, be sent where the quality persist at a fraction of the fee as compared to 'premium' countries. We are talking about comparative advantage here, a very basic economic principle. But, again, aren't we, the modern consumer are obsessed with BRANDING?, perhaps, there is a need to have our principle on Branding re - analysed without FEAR or FAVOUR

Educational Excellence

When one decides to enroll in a particular institution, how does one decide? What are the principles applied towards making this decision? Reading page 126, Campus Asia, I am amazed at the similarity that exist between Malaysia and Indonesia. Pitan Daslani wrote ‘Education…can be geared towards development of human potential as a whole for the sake of human beings across the globe and not just for certain government’. My question then will be, are accredited Institution carries the connotation of being Excellent? If yes, then, from whose point of view, is it the students or the government? If the University is not accredited, yet it delivers towards full development of human potential, does it make it 2^nd class because it is not accredited? But again, who accredit the accreditation bodies?

5 years into the New Millennium

In the year 2005, after my annual meeting with the Universities in St. Petersburg & Moscow in the Russian Federation, namely :
1. Bauman Moscow State Technical University
2. St. Petersburg State Pediatric Medical Academy
3. St. Petersburg State Pavlov Medical University
4. St. Petersburg Chemical & Pharmaceutical Academy,

On top of that, I went to Tula, and visited the Tula State University, I am thankful for the people in Tula for the warm welcome and friendliness

On the next day, I went to the Embassy of Malaysia, and officially presented my credentials to His Excellency, Dato' Mohd Khalis, I provided him copies of the Appointment of MISSIB Management (Consultancy), which is a renewed mandate as homme d'affaires to act on the Institutions' behalf in Malaysia and the Region. He was positive about it, and I applaud his commitment towards Education

Recognition? Accreditation? What it means…

at least in Malaysia. Through out my time serving MPEC Universities as the Director of Studies, I came across many questions by students, parents & teachers alike in regards to, if it is recognised? Is it accredited?

From the point of view as an Academician, it is a very tricky question. As a rule of thumb, I will tell them facts such as, what is the purpose of accreditation and why it is important to them as ASEAN Students. MISSIB Professional & Educational Centre i.e. MPEC is the EDUCATION OFFICE for renowned Institutions in St. Petersburg, Moscow as well as Hungary in Central Europe. MPEC Universities has had 100% pass for the USMLE, and of course since Hungary joins the European Union, there has been no further requirement for accreditation, there are Hungarian Medical Doctors working in London Hospitals over weekends. Now, where does that put us?

It is also a very puzzling situation for European Universities to understand, after many years of traditional excellence, and producing Nobel Laureates, they have to be vetted, inspected by Malaysian Authorities, so as to ensure, these Institution are good enough for Malaysian bright, young, intellectual students. I leave it to the 'power that be' to decide and see things from the point of view of these EUROPEAN SCHOLARS. It is interesting to understand the logic (at least try to understand them), are Engineering Programmes in Russia recognised by Malaysia & other ASEAN Countries? Perhaps it is not even known by us, but again..didn't Malaysia sent its very first cosmonaut (I will keep to the Russian terminology) via training in Star City, Moscow? It is a very ironic situation, but again, are students sent to study Engineering there, or Malaysia send them somewhere else? I believe, the answer does not require rocket science knowledge. By the way, where was Sukhoi and MIG, invented?