On 20th March 2023, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and Al-Azhar University, Gaza (AUG) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in various fields focusing on the cooperation and promotion of mutual understanding, academic, cultural and scientific thoughts as well as staff exchanges.

The MoU was signed by UiTM Vice-Chancellor, YBhg. Prof. Datuk Ts. Dr. Hajah Roziah Mohd Janor and AUG’s Chancellor, Prof. Omar Melad. The signing ceremony was officiated by UiTM Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and International), YBhg. Prof. Datin Dr. Suzana Sulaiman and attended by representatives from both institutions including Assistant Professor Mohammed Taha, Dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, AUG and Prof. Dato’ Dr. Abu Bakar Abdul Majeed, Dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, UiTM.

According to Prof. Datin Dr. Suzana Sulaiman, the collaborative partnership with AUG is in line with UiTM’s vision to be a globally renowned university in science, technology, humanities, and entrepreneurship. “On the humanity front, UiTM upholds the spirit of equality in education to engage with the community beyond borders. At present, UiTM has active MOUs with 26 universities from the Middle East and the addition of Al – Azhar University Gaza will definitely open doors to wider angles of education equality as well as opportunities for mutual transfer of knowledge and expertise,” she said.

The collaborative relationship following the MoU signing is projected to initiate proactive and sustainable development towards UiTM and AUG shared vision in providing top-notch education and research quality as well as ensuring high graduate employability. Areas of collaboration include acceptance of undergraduate and postgraduate students for research activities and co-organization of conferences and training courses. Future collaborative works between UiTM and AUG are expected to address some of the current key global challenges based on the diverse research expertise and interest between the two institutions.