SHANGHAI, CHINA – 22 September, 2025 – The University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) reinforced its position as a forward-thinking leader in global education through a significant contribution to the Global Higher Education Presidents’ Forum in Shanghai on 22nd September 2025. Representing Malaysia and the institution, Prof Hazel Melanie Ramos, the Vice Provost for Teaching and Learning and a Professor of Psychology at the University of Nottingham Malaysia participated in a high-level panel discussion, sharing UNM’s innovative strategies for harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and fostering industry-academia integration.
The Forum, a flagship event designated by the Shanghai Municipal Government, was co-hosted by the Shanghai Overseas Scholars Returned Association (SORSA), the Shanghai Youth Federation (SYF), the World Alumni Association Alliance (WAAA), and the Shanghai Overseas Returnees Town. The theme, “AI Empowerment — Building a New Educational Ecosystem: Integration and Innovation in Global Higher Education,” attracted presidents and vice-provosts from leading universities worldwide.
UNM’s participation served to deepen the university’s relationship with its extensive network of overseas graduates, many of whom are influential figures in China and across Asia. During the panel, the Vice-Provost elaborated on UNM’s practical approach to AI integration, moving beyond theoretical discussion to highlight real-world applications. The address drew inspiration from the insights of Professor Hazel Melanie Ramos of UNM, who previously emphasised the university's commitment to developing "the whole person."
Key initiatives shared with the global audience included:
- AI-Driven Operational Excellence: UNM’s successful use of AI and analytics to streamline complex administrative processes, such as launching a new program for 150 students by April 2025, demonstrating enhanced flexibility and strategic ambition.
- Curriculum Innovation for Real-World Problem Solving: The integration of compulsory modules in critical thinking, study skills, and global sustainability, alongside a pioneering partnership with an Australian ed-tech company. This collaboration creates virtual opportunities for students to solve practical problems for international companies, ensuring academic learning is directly applied.
- Mandatory Industry Integration: A strategic push to ensure that by 2026, every UNM student will have at least one work-life experience. This is achieved by requiring industry-based contributors in all modules across all faculties, including the arts and humanities, fostering creative partnerships.
- Holistic Student Development: The vital role of over 70 clubs and societies at UNM in building an active community ecosystem that cultivates better communicators, critical thinkers, and well-rounded human beings.
“This forum was an exceptional platform to share the University of Nottingham Malaysia’s vision,” said the Vice-Provost. “We believe that AI is not a threat but an opportunity to make universities stronger and more responsive. Our presence here in Shanghai is a testament to our commitment to global collaboration and to nurturing our enduring connection with our talented alumni community in China. It’s about creating a continuous cycle of knowledge-sharing and opportunity, truly valuing the ‘homecoming’ of ideas and talent.”
The Forum was a central part of the broader Shanghai Returnee Student Festival, which also featured an Overseas Returnees Talent Fair.
Posted on 30th September 2025