By: Dr Marzita Mansor, Faculty of Computing and Meta Technology, UPSI
Editor: Dr Ahmad Wiraputra Selamat, Faculty of Computing and Meta Technology, UPSI
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, 18 December, 2024 — A groundbreaking collaboration between Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI), Malaysia, and the National Institute of Fine Arts and Design (NIFAD), Uzbekistan, has been officially launched with the establishment of the Meta-Centre, UPSI @ NIFAD.
The Centre, formally known as the Centre for Learning and Meta-Technology, aims to revolutionize educational technology and training for educators in Uzbekistan.
The momentous event took place at NIFAD’s headquarters, where key representatives from both institutions gathered to finalize the first phase of the project.
UPSI is represented by Dr. Marzita Mansor from the Faculty of Computing and Meta-Technology, also member of UPSI’s EduGreen Special Interest Group (SIG).

They were met by prominent NIFAD officials, including Professor of the Art Management Department, Professor Dr. Umida Zunnunova and Head of the International Communications Department Mrs. Shohsanam Shukuralieva, as well as other members of NIFAD’s committee.
The high-level meeting was marked by detailed deliberations on the Centre’s operational framework, with a primary focus on the activities scheduled for Phase One. Both sides agreed on a roadmap that outlines specific training programs, resource allocation, and milestone tracking for the project’s initial rollout.
Dr. Marzita Mansor emphasized UPSI’s crucial role in driving the project forward, highlighting the university’s commitment to providing technological resources and academic expertise.
“This Centre represents a bold step towards empowering educators with the tools and knowledge required for modern education,” she stated.
UPSI will spearhead the management and execution of the project, with clearly defined responsibilities for UPSI’s representatives and NIFAD’s committee members.
Notably, resource allocation discussions culminated in a consensus on the required technological infrastructure and operational support, with both parties pledging to contribute essential resources to ensure the Centre’s sustainability and success.
Beyond the launch of Phase One, discussions also explored the potential for future joint initiatives. Both UPSI and NIFAD are keen to expand the scope of their collaboration to include joint research projects and the development of educational programs aimed at driving innovation in educational technology.
The delegations for both institutions agreed that the Centre for Learning and Meta-Technology is a testament to the power of international cooperation in advancing education.

“We look forward to working closely with UPSI to deliver impactful programs that will enhance the capabilities of our educators and uplift the quality of education in Uzbekistan.”
the first initiative of its kind in the region, the Meta-Centre is poised to become a central hub for technological advancement in education.
The Centre’s primary focus will be on training educators in cutting-edge information technology tools and pedagogical methods. This strategic move is expected to strengthen the digital capabilities of educators, enhancing the overall quality of education in Uzbekistan.
The Meta-Centre, UPSI @ NIFAD, represents a forward-thinking approach to education technology, one that could serve as a model for similar collaborations worldwide.
As the initiative gains momentum, the educational landscape in Uzbekistan is set to undergo a transformative change, opening up new possibilities for teachers, students, and education stakeholders alike.