KAZAN: Malaysia is ready to expand student exchange programmes with Russian universities, but mutual recognition of diplomas should be introduced first to give Russian and Malaysian students an incentive to study in both countries, says higher education minister Khaled Nordin.
“We are open to that,” Khaled said on the sidelines of the 14th International economic forum “Russia – Islamic World: Kazan Forum” when asked whether Malaysia plans to expand student exchange programmes with Russian universities, Russian news agency Sputnik reported.
“We has a student mobility programme and at the moment, the country has many universities from all over the world that are already participating in it and sending their students to Malaysia,” he added.
“We welcome, especially in summer, Russian students to Malaysia. We want more Russian students to come to Malaysia.”.
However, he noted that the countries should sign an agreement on mutual recognition of diplomas.
“We also agree that there should be an understanding and agreement between the two countries on mutual recognition (of diplomas).
“This will pave the way for more students to come either to Russia or Russian students to continue their studies in Malaysia. Without this mutual recognition there can be limitations,” Khaled was quoted as saying.
He also said that many students from Malaysia are studying in Russia “especially in the field of medicine and pharmacy, as well as engineering,” adding that they are grateful for this opportunity.
“We are grateful that we have this opportunity. We have very strong relations in higher education between the two countries.
“There are many collaborations between our universities and Russian universities. We hope this can continue,” he said.
Earlier yesterday, Khaled had a meeting on future prospects for cooperation with Russian deputy minister of science and higher education Airat Gatiyatov.
The forum took place in the Russian city of Kazan from May 18-19.
Agriculture and food security minister Mohamad Sabu also attended the forum.
Both ministers are holding a series of meetings with Russian representatives to boost cooperation in various areas, including education, trade, and tourism.