UoC Signs Landmark MoU to Bridge Classroom and Industry in Pharmacy

The University of Cyberjaya (UoC) has taken an important step towards preparing future pharmacists for the real world by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with five leading pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical companies.

The agreement, signed on Tuesday, 9 September 2025, brings together The Raw International Sdn. Bhd., Kind Cosmeceuticals Sdn. Bhd., Novugen Pharma & Novugen Oncology Sdn. Bhd., Amber Pharmacy Sdn. Bhd, and Arcadia Lifesciences Sdn. Bhd. Each company will work with UoC’s Faculty of Pharmacy to create opportunities that go far beyond the classroom.

Putting Students at the Heart

For students, the partnership means more than just access to internships. It promises hands-on training, exposure to industry challenges, and the chance to work alongside professionals who are shaping the future of healthcare. For academics, it opens doors to collaborative projects and knowledge exchange that will keep teaching and research relevant to fast-moving industry needs.

Prof. Dr. David Whitford, Vice Chancellor of UoC, said the signing was about creating real change in the way students learn and apply their skills.

“This collaboration is about preparing our students to step confidently into their professions. By learning directly from leaders in the field, they will graduate not only with strong academic foundations but also with the experience and insight that employers value most.”

A Shared Commitment

The signing ceremony brought together senior representatives from each partner company: Ms. Adibah Mazlan of The Raw International, Dr. Ong Wee Kiat of Kind Cosmeceuticals, Ms. Felicia Tan of Novugen Pharma & Novugen Oncology, Ms. Jasmine Cheng of Amber Pharmacy Sdn Bhd, and Prof. Thin Thin Aye of Arcadia Lifesciences.

They were welcomed by UoC’s leadership, including Prof. Dr. Azrin Esmady Ariffin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Dr. Francois Therin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Enterprise), and Prof. Dr. Gan Siew Hua, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy.

Prof. Dr. Gan Siew Hua said the MoU was about creating meaningful opportunities for growth.

“We want our students to feel that what they are learning in the classroom connects directly to the world they will step into. This partnership makes that connection possible and ensures our graduates are ready to contribute from day one.”

Looking Ahead

The agreement strengthens the University of Cyberjaya’s role as a bridge between education and industry. It also supports Malaysia’s efforts to build a strong pharmaceutical and healthcare sector, driven by research, innovation, and people with the right skills to make a difference.