A Special Month for the University for All

Today, many recognise OUM as Malaysia’s pioneering open university.

In fact, before OUM, there were public universities offering distance learning programmes. Even during the pre-independence era, distance courses were available by mail in Malaya.

However, OUM’s approach to distance learning is unique, as it is the first university to champion the concept of second chances and the democratisation of education through e-learning.

OUM’s approach goes beyond traditional distance learning by leveraging technology to provide access and flexibility, ensuring a more enjoyable and engaging learning experience even without face-to-face meetings.

Typically, only school leavers who qualify can become full-time students on campus. But everyone’s circumstances are different; each year, many miss out on the opportunity to study at a university due to various reasons or constraints.

This situation changed with the establishment of Universiti Terbuka Malaysia in August 2000. (It was previously called Universiti Terbuka Malaysia. Now, we simply call it OUM.)

The purpose of OUM’s establishment is clear: to elevate the status of distance learning in Malaysia and open opportunities for anyone seeking higher education qualifications.

When registration opened for the first time in August 2001, it attracted 753 individuals. OUM is now over two decades old. As of last year, the number of graduates has exceeded 103,000. They come from different specialisations, levels, locations, and backgrounds. All of them seized the second chance to earn a degree. All of them embraced OUM’s motto, “University for All”.

August is certainly special for Malaysians. But it also holds sweet memories for OUM, as it marks the anniversary of our University.

As we eagerly celebrate the 67th Independence Day, let us also appreciate the history of OUM. Let us strive to be competent students and graduates. Let us proudly embody the spirit of University for All.