UiTM seeks to produce experts in drones, computing

KOTA SAMARAHAN: Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Samarahan seeks to produce experts who specialise in drones and computing.

Rector Prof Datuk Dr Jamil Hamali said UiTM has always supported creating an innovative and dynamic society.

He noted that the International Conference on Computer and Drone Applications (lConDA) is one of the many platforms that allows the university to reach the potential of the future generation.

He said the significance of drone and computer technology today could not be denied.

“Hence, there is a need to consider the impacts of this technology on the economy and indeed, this is the perfect platform to engage all participants in an open constructive dialogue about the significance of drones and computers as well as how they are affecting our lives.

“It would not be too ambitious for me to say that we expect to produce aspiring future scientists, academics, and professionals with specialised expertise and knowledge,” he said at the launch of the second IConDA at UiTM campus two Thursday.

Jamil said at the grassroots level, UiTM is also in the midst of encouraging a pool of young talents in drone technology.

He added the university already integrated robotics and coding as part of the classroom syllabus to open up more perspectives on science, technology, engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), which are key to developing future skills.

Jamil said although the local scene is still at the nascent stage, drone technology can develop further with public-private partnership and the involvement of other relevant government agencies to assist UiTM in engaging and developing the drone-tech industry.

A major driver on this front is the Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), which started an initiative to develop the drone scene in 2017.

“Also, collaborating with the Entrepreneur Development Ministry may also boost the creation of ‘dronepreneurs’ in the drone-tech industry.

“So, instead of being a big fish in a small pond, promoting a nurturing ecosystem for new technologies would be better for Malaysia,” he said.