STAFFORDSHIRE, ENGLAND, 13 July 2017 - A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and the University of Keele in Staffordshire recently, following efforts which began in 2012, to continue collaborations in areas of mutual interest.

The USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Datuk Dr. Asma Ismail said that the MoU will allow both institutions to cooperate more closely together towards achieving common goals and in enhancing the broader context of education.

"As we move into the future, facing the challenges of the 21st century - globalisation, the digital revolution and economic uncertainties - students are beginning to ask about the value of education they are receiving, which relates to matters such as students' experience; and with the advent of 4IR, automation and robotics, many will face job loss, hence graduate employability becomes a strong criteria for students to choose a university," she said.

Meanwhile, Keele Vice-Chancellor, Professor Trevor McMillan also viewed the signing of the MoU as a truly positive effort in moving ahead with the times.

“We in Keele really welcome the Vice-Chancellor of USM here and we are really happy to work with USM, and would like to further the relationship between both universities that was established since 2012. We are looking forward to the 2nd phase of cooperation for the benefit of both parties in the near future.”

Also known as Keele University, it was founded in 1949 and is the highest-ranked public research university in Staffordshire. Keele is ranked 1^st in the UK for student experience and also for graduate employment.

It has been awarded and given numerous accolades for various achievements in different aspects as a higher educational institution. It currently has the largest campus of any university in the UK, in having its own science park and conference centre.

Also present at the signing ceremony were representatives from USM and Keele University.