In the ever-evolving workplace of today, one undeniable truth remains: continuous learning is the secret sauce to career advancement. Education isn't just about earning a degree; it's a thrilling adventure of skill enhancement and personal growth.

At the forefront of this exciting narrative stands Open University Malaysia (OUM), a digital university with a simple yet profound philosophy: to make higher education accessible, affordable and available for all.

Says OUM President/Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr Ahmad Izanee Awang, “We are dedicated to providing a rich learning experience that is flexible and convenient for working adults. The days of having to choose one over the other, work or studies, is over. We make it easy for everyone, regardless of their demographics, to work and study at the same time, through fully online learning.”

What this means for the man or woman on the street is that they could study without having to travel to a physical campus. Classes, discussions, assignments and even exams could be managed online. There are 35 learning centres nationwide but these only provide guidance and assistance, not classrooms.

“Professionals today face the dilemma of needing extra qualifications for career progress but having little time to spare for studies due to their demanding jobs. This is the main driving force behind OUM’s mission to make higher education much more doable, especially for those who are perennially busy,” Prof Izanee explained.

One professional who has been reaching his aspirations through OUM is Dr Tin Shin Thed, who obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in 2010 and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2014. "The BBA and MBA equipped me with invaluable skills applicable to my work," Dr Tin proudly states. "They improved my problem-solving skills, enhanced my critical thinking, and gave me a broader perspective on business. I could apply the concepts and theories I had learned in my courses to real-world situations, making me a more effective and efficient marketer."

OUM programmes don't just provide credentials; they align perfectly with real-world applications, a crucial asset for professionals aiming to excel in today's competitive landscape. Says Dr Tin, “Until now, I have my course modules on my bookshelf. They are valuable references and reminders of the knowledge and skills that I had acquired during my studies. I even gained networks that have opened up new opportunities.”

As the call for adaptable, highly-skilled individuals grows louder, OUM's diverse offerings, accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency and endorsed by respected professional bodies, offer working adults the competitive edge they need. For example, both the BBA and MBA are recognised by the prestigious Chartered Management Institute.

OUM also recognises working experience for enrolment through the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) pathway. Students could also take advantage of APEL to obtain credit transfer and graduate faster.

In an era where HR departments are tasked with nurturing workforces that possess both specialised knowledge and versatile skills, OUM is the ideal partner. In 20 years, 98,000 individuals from varying backgrounds have undergone a metamorphic upskilling process.

Some benefit so much that they return for more. Dr Tin, for instance, is currently undertaking the Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching. “This programme is particularly relevant for me as I’m currently teaching management courses at a local university,” he said.

Prof Izanee concludes, "In today's dynamic landscape, mere entry-level qualifications are inadequate, whether you're in the private or public sector. What you require are additional resources in your professional toolkit, and OUM stands ready to equip you with them."

For more information on OUM programmes, call the OUM speedline at 03-7801 2000, email [email protected], or visit www.oum.edu.my.