OUM’s Flexible Learning Model Key To Lifelong Education Vision – Wan Azizah

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 9 (Bernama) -- Open University Malaysia (OUM) has carved a unique role in the nation’s higher education landscape by championing flexible learning beyond traditional classrooms, said Prime Minister’s wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

She said unlike institutions focused on full-time study, OUM enables students to learn on the train, during lunch breaks, after work or once family responsibilities are met.

“This flexibility supports our national vision of widening access to education and fostering a society that values lifelong learning,” she said at OUM’s 25th anniversary gala dinner here today.

Also present were OUM pro-chancellor Tan Sri Azman Hashim, and president and vice-chancellor Prof Dr Ahmad Izanee Awang.

Wan Azizah also highlighted the rapid pace of technological change, noting it offers powerful tools but also significant risks.

“Building a better Malaysia means developing well-rounded individuals who balance achievement with strong values. This is the essence of MADANI and OUM exemplifies it,” she added.

Wan Azizah said OUM has welcomed thousands of learners over the years, from working adults and young professionals to athletes, celebrities, retirees and even prison inmates, providing opportunities to pursue higher education on their own terms.

More than just a university, OUM has become a lifeline for those determined to learn, both in Malaysia and abroad.

“Education should never be limited by age, background or circumstances. Your oldest student graduated last year with an MBA at the age of 90,” she said, adding that OUM’s impact extends beyond academic results to strengthening families, uplifting communities and contributing to national progress.

She said OUM’s five core values, namely integrity, professionalism, caring, innovativeness and teamwork, also align with the MADANI concept of balanced development rooted in compassion and service.

“In my journey in public service, I have come to see that true progress is rooted in togetherness, compassion and service. I see these same principles reflected in OUM’s shared values,” she said.

Prof Ahmad Izanee said the anniversary theme, ‘25 Years of Humanising Digital Education,’ reflects OUM’s belief that human connection remains central to effective learning, even in the digital age.

Since its establishment in 2000 under a consortium of 11 public universities, OUM has produced over 120,000 graduates and now offers 61 fully online Malaysian Qualifications Agency-accredited programmes from diploma to doctorate level.

Its jubilee celebrations include planting 2,500 trees under the ‘Save Our Earth’ campaign, a public lecture by five Global Fellows on the future of digital education, and upcoming activities such as a Mount Kinabalu expedition in September and a fun run in October.

-- BERNAMA