Tanjong Malim, 7 May 2025 – Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) continues to strengthen its global presence as four alumni from the Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) programme under the Faculty of Languages and Communication (FBK) have been selected to participate in a prestigious three month teaching placement in Shangqiu, China, under the International Mobility and Attachment Programme.
The placement will take place at the Science and Technology Professional School of Shangqiu City, a comprehensive secondary vocational institution officially recognised by the Shangqiu Municipal Education and Sports Bureau and registered with the Henan Provincial Department of Education.
The school is located at Shangqiu Technology School, Jianshe West Road, Liangyuan District, Shangqiu City, Henan Province, China.
The selected TESL alumni from UPSI are:
1. Tharushiny A/P Francis Xaviar
2. Farah Nur Izzah Binti Abdul Rahman
3. Hamidah Binti Kifran
4. Nur Hafiza Binti Rusli
They will serve as English language teachers and contribute to language based co-curricular activities. This placement not only allows them to refine their teaching skills in a real world educational environment, but also offers a valuable opportunity to introduce elements of Malaysian culture and pedagogy to students in China.
The programme also involves two UPSI staff members, Dr Farah Natchiar and Ms Azura Mat Said, who will undergo a three week attachment as part of UPSI’s initiative to empower academic staff through international exposure.
The mobility period for the students is three months, with a monthly allowance of RM3,000, fully sponsored by the host school, demonstrating the institution’s strong commitment to supporting the professional development of international educators.
The Science and Technology Professional School of Shangqiu City spans approximately 62,000 square metres and is equipped with modern infrastructure, including academic blocks, student dormitories, a multipurpose training centre, cafeteria, sports facilities, and a fully integrated digital campus. Its library holds more than 22,000 physical volumes and 100,000 digital resources.
Guided by the educational philosophy of “student centred development with moral education as its foundation,” the institution promotes holistic student development encompassing ethics, intellect, physical well-being, aesthetic appreciation, and vocational skills. Its education model described as “semi-military, standardised, scientific, and refined” is deeply rooted in traditional Chinese cultural values.
This initiative is part of UPSI’s efforts through the Alumni Centre, aimed at expanding global academic cooperation and providing international teaching exposure for graduates, particularly those from the TESL programme under the Faculty of Languages and Communication. It also aligns with the UPSI Strategic Plan 2021–2025, which emphasises global engagement and enhances the visibility of UPSI graduates on the world stage.
UPSI Vice Chancellor, Professor Datuk Dr Md Amin Md Taff, expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, “This success reflects the quality of UPSI’s TESL programme and the outstanding capabilities of its graduates. We believe these alumni will not only be excellent educators but also serve as proud cultural ambassadors for Malaysia.”
UPSI extends its heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all participants. This meaningful collaboration is expected to open doors to broader academic networks, including dual certification programmes and future staff and student exchange initiatives further solidifying UPSI’s position as a leader in global education.