The new amendment to the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU) 1971, passed by the House of Representatives, is part of efforts to promote a culture of student organization, thereby revitalizing the student-led movement for the students themselves.

This aligns with their ability to manage maturity and sophistication, thereby dispelling the general perception that the student movement is becoming increasingly lethargic.

The Bill was read by the Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, emphasizing the empowerment of student disciplinary committees, the financial management of associations, and the election period for the Student Representative Council. (MPP).

It is the result of a series of engagements carried out by the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT), as well as at the level of public universities (UA) involving student leaders since 2021.

The bill, which is expected to be presented in the Senate next month, brings significant improvements in opening up more opportunities for students to participate in important decision-making alongside university committees.

Based on the concept of youth development, collaboration between students and university leadership as guiding adults (Youth-Adult Partnership) can be realized at the university level, thereby further highlighting the potential of students.

Recently, higher education has undergone significant changes with a focus on the agenda of student empowerment, especially in producing individuals with resilient graduate character to face upcoming challenges, including managing organizational sustainability.

The ability of students to manage finances and resources is an added value for students when it is granted through Section 15A, allowing the Student Representative Council (SRC) and student bodies to collect money or receive other contributions.

Indirectly, it broadens students' perspectives and highlights the potential to provide comprehensive services to all students. The amendment also allows the university's student council (MPP) to manage a fund. (akaun).

Encouraging student involvement strengthens vision and mission

Student involvement in organizational management allows them to contribute to the strategic development of the university. For example, the True North Aspiration at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) encourages student involvement in empowering the university's vision, mission, and long-term goals by providing the best learning and living experiences on campus.

In line with the aspiration to bring significant changes to the management structure of higher education institutions (HEIs), the amendment to Section 48(4) of the First Schedule allows the term of appointment for MPP to be based on the academic calendar.

It is one of the important changes to ensure the harmonious freedom of students throughout their university studies. The right to student freedom is a key element in a democratic society that respects human rights based on religious values, culture, and local norms.

The recognition of student involvement in leadership and governance activities is also seen through the amendment to the application of Section 49(2) of the First Schedule, which allows university student bodies to receive the same facilities as the Student Representative Council (SRC).

Student involvement in activity management will open up more opportunities to create and implement innovations in teaching, research, co-curricular activities, and enhance student achievement.

Think creatively, innovatively

In the end, efforts to develop students' character in terms of academic achievement and personal development can be implemented by giving them more space to think creatively, innovatively, and create something new.

The involvement of students as key stakeholders in the decision-making process at the university contributes to the effectiveness and sustainability of the institution, thereby ensuring a quality learning experience for students.

The amendment to this bill aligns with the focus of the KPT 2024 roadmap in providing the country's best talents, strengthening the research and innovation ecosystem, implementing new approaches to transfer programs and knowledge sharing, internationalizing higher education, and enhancing the enabling ecosystem.

Now is the time for students to not only be heirs of knowledge but also dynamic agents of change. The development of student direction is a priority in shaping the landscape of education and society.

Written By : Prof. Madya. Dr. Mohd Mursyid Arshad

Date of Input: 30/12/2024 | Updated: 30/12/2024 | syafiqirfan