PENANG, 11 May 2013 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) strengthened the collaboration with Osram Opto Semiconductors (Malaysia) Sdn. Ltd. (OSRAM) through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed here recently.

Through the MOA, OSRAM will continue its commitment to play a significant role in the expansion of knowledge by contributing RM1.33 million to the University.

The donation includes funding for the research and development in the university, while also involving three other aspects such as the provision of laboratory equipment, scholarships and industrial training opportunities with OSRAM.

USM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Omar Osman said that USM is always trying to expand formal and focused relationship with the industry, especially in efforts to form a synergy that can benefit both parties.

He said that the collaborative ties which were forged since 2009, yield encouraging results, therefore it is hoped that these ties will develop with involvement of more Schools in USM.

“So far, OSRAM had donated equipment and provided research facilities, light emitting diode (LED) components and scholarships to four PhD and Masters students.

“This is a partnership that is not easy to achieve especially with a company from Germany that is famous for its technological expertise,” he said at a press conference after the MoU signing ceremony here recently.

In the meantime, the Managing Director of the leading global LED company, Dr. Roland Mueller, said that the joint venture between the company and the USM was based on the USM’s track record as a research university and its reputation.

“It fulfills the requirements of the company in the form of new synergies in strategic alliances with institutions of higher education which, in turn, could provide opportunities for both parties to share the benefits of the development efforts,” he said.

He added that, in addition to funding scholarships, OSRAM also provides an opportunity for USM students to undergo industrial training at OSRAM as a preparatory step before they apply that knowledge to the field of their career later. -- Text: Marziana Mohamed Alias/Photo: Mohd. Fairus Md. Isa/Translation: Tan Ewe Hoe