Universiti Teknologi MARA

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) is a public university in Malaysia that has made significant contributions to higher education, particularly in the realm of medical education. Established in 1956, UiTM has grown from a small college into the largest institution of higher learning in terms of size and population in Malaysia. The university's mission is to provide quality education and to foster professional, societal, and intellectual growth among its students, including those from the indigenous Bumiputera community.

History[edit | edit source]

UiTM began as RIDA (Rural & Industrial Development Authority) Training Centre (Malay: Dewan Latihan RIDA), with the primary aim of assisting the rural Malay community. The institution was later renamed MARA College (Maktab MARA) before it achieved university status and became Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) in 1999. Over the years, UiTM has expanded its academic offerings and now includes a wide range of programs across various fields, including medicine, engineering, business, law, information technology, and arts and design.

Campus[edit | edit source]

The main campus of UiTM is located in Shah Alam, the capital city of Selangor. However, UiTM operates numerous satellite campuses across Malaysia, making higher education accessible to students in both urban and rural areas. Each campus is equipped with modern facilities and resources to support the academic and extracurricular activities of students.

Faculty of Medicine[edit | edit source]

The Faculty of Medicine at UiTM is one of the university's standout faculties, offering comprehensive medical programs aimed at producing competent healthcare professionals. The faculty provides a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree, which is recognized both locally and internationally. The curriculum is designed to integrate basic medical sciences with clinical training, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the medical profession.

Research and Innovation[edit | edit source]

UiTM is committed to research and innovation, with numerous research centers and institutes focusing on various fields. The university encourages multidisciplinary research activities, aiming to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and to address societal needs. In the medical field, UiTM researchers are involved in groundbreaking studies that have the potential to improve healthcare outcomes and patient care.

Community Service[edit | edit source]

Community service is a core component of UiTM's philosophy. The university's medical students and faculty members regularly participate in community health programs, providing free medical services, health screenings, and health education to underserved communities. These initiatives not only benefit the community but also provide valuable hands-on experience for students.

Alumni[edit | edit source]

UiTM has produced a significant number of alumni who have gone on to achieve success in various fields. In the medical sector, UiTM graduates are well-regarded for their professionalism, skills, and dedication to serving the community.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) plays a pivotal role in Malaysia's higher education landscape, particularly in the field of medical education. Through its comprehensive academic programs, research initiatives, and community service, UiTM continues to contribute to the development of knowledgeable, skilled, and compassionate healthcare professionals.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD