KUCHING: Swinburne University of Technology will launch its new strategic plan in November, following nearly a year of consultation and collaboration with staff, students, alumni, and partners.
Its vice-chancellor and president Professor Pascale Quester said the new strategy is built on shared vision called the Quantum Leaps, the university’s tangible commitments to pioneering new frontiers.
“The four ‘Quantum Leaps’ outline Swinburne’s focus for the coming years: tailored and innovative pathways to success for all learners; leading and leveraging technology for purpose; co-creating the industries of the future through collaboration with government and industry; and making the world our campus, connecting communities and institutions globally.
“These Quantum Leaps represent our commitment to transform the global education environment and shaping a sustainable future,” Quester said in her speech during the Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Tuesday (Oct 28).
She said the 25th anniversary marks a significant milestone at Swinburne Sarawak — a quarter-century of partnership and achievement between Swinburne and the Sarawak government.
“Twenty-five years ago, Swinburne and the Sarawak government entered a partnership to establish Swinburne’s first overseas offerings, creating valuable education opportunities for the Sarawakian community and its surrounding region.
“This partnership not only demonstrated the trust the Sarawak government had in Swinburne’s ability to deliver world-class Australian education, but also Swinburne’s belief in Sarawak’s potential as a regional education and innovation hub,” she said.
Since its establishment in 2000, Quester said Swinburne Sarawak has produced over 10,000 graduates, many of whom have gone on to become leaders, innovators, and professionals across Malaysia, Southeast Asia, and around the world.
She also highlighted Swinburne’s growing global reputation, noting that the university is now ranked among the top 300 universities worldwide by both the QS University Rankings and the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, as well as among the Top 25 Under 50 young universities.
“Students studying at Swinburne Sarawak have access to the same world-class education as those in Melbourne — the same degrees, the same standards, and the same Swinburne excellence,” she said.
Quester added that Swinburne’s expansion into emerging disciplines such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, sustainable energy, and digital innovation demonstrated its commitment to aligning education with industry needs and technological advancement.
“We are building a prototype of a new and different kind of university — one that is practical, industry-engaged, and focused on preparing students for real-world careers,” she said.
