After the breakfast, the session started by speech from the Head of Department, Prof. Saedi, who shared his aspirations and vision. His talk covered areas such as academic excellence, department growth, innovations in education, and future collaborations. It aims to inspire both faculty and students to align with this collective vision and take part in shaping the department’s future.
Then, Prof. Nassereldeen shared insights from his extensive careers and reflected on his professional journeys’ challenges, achievements, and pivotal moments. The session gave valuable lessons on career growth, navigating academia, and building resilience. By sharing his personal stories, Prof. Nassereldeen aims to offer guidance and motivation, particularly for younger faculty and emerging academics.
The final segment of this session is all about practicality-bridging the gap between academia and industry. Dr. Amanatuzzakiah and Dr. Fadhillah shared their experiences from their recent industry attachments, providing insight into the evolving demands of the workforce and the skills required for students to thrive in their careers. This talk highlighted the importance of staying connected with industry trends, fostering collaborations, and implementing practical, real-world knowledge into academic curricula.
Finally, the event continued with the talk by Prof. Ahmad Fadzli Bin Ismail, Director of Reseach Management Center (RMC) IIUM relating to The Malaysian Research Assessment (MyRA) system. MyRA plays a crucial role in evaluating the research performance of higher education institutions. Prof Fadzil shared his insights into how the CHES Department can improve its research output and quality, enhancing its standing in national and international rankings. The talk covered strategies for securing research funding, building interdisciplinary research collaborations, and publishing in high-impact journals. The objective is to foster a culture of research excellence and encourage faculty members to engage in impactful research that contributes to the academic community and society.
After a morning of thought-provoking sessions, CHES family which include academician, technical and administration staff had the chance to unwind and enjoy a leisurely lunch. This break was not only an opportunity to refuel but also to continue the conversations sparked during the morning sessions. Networking during lunch allows attendees to build connections with colleagues and senior academics. It is also an excellent time for junior faculty to seek mentorship and advice from more experienced academic members. The informal setting encourages open dialogue, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration across different fields.
The CHES Family Day 2024 was filled with reflection, learning, and visioning for the future. Through insightful talks and collaborative discussions, the event seeks to strengthen the bonds within the CHES Department while inspiring innovation and research excellence. The faculty members left with new perspectives on career development, industry trends, and the steps necessary to elevate their research practices.
