As secondary school students face critical decisions about their futures, Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) aims to support them through its Centre for Pre-University Studies (CPUS). The centre emphasises not only academic preparation but also personal development during this transitional stage.
Jeswynna Roy, head of the CPUS Quality Assurance Division and a senior lecturer at TAR UMT, described the pre-university period as a time of self-discovery. “Students are uncovering both their academic interests and their personal identities,” she said. The centre’s approach focuses on guiding students through this dual process, balancing independent learning with ongoing support.
Lu Jia Qi, a former Foundation in Computing student now pursuing a Bachelor of Software Engineering (Hons) at TAR UMT, shared an experience that illustrated the centre’s supportive approach. Faced with technical difficulties while completing a website assignment shortly before the deadline, Lu and his teammates sought help from their lecturer, who stayed after hours to patiently assist them through their challenges. This encounter, Lu said, was memorable not only for the academic support but also for the sense of care and encouragement it conveyed.
Roy explained that while CPUS encourages students to develop autonomy in their studies, “we never leave them to figure things out alone.” Each student is assigned an academic advisor who provides regular guidance, helping them navigate both academic and emotional challenges during this formative period.
Beyond classroom learning, TAR UMT promotes student growth through extracurricular activities designed to foster teamwork, leadership, and resilience. Lu recalled a rock-climbing event organised by CPUS head Teddy Nelson as a particularly meaningful experience. The activity offered a welcome break from academic work and an opportunity to build lasting friendships with peers and juniors.
Reflecting on his time in the foundation programme, Lu described it as a transformative experience that boosted his confidence and broadened his perspective. “If I had to choose again, I would still choose TAR UMT’s foundation studies,” he said, highlighting the blend of challenge, support, and inspiration he found throughout the programme.
TAR UMT is hosting an Open Day from September 5 to 6 at its campuses nationwide, providing prospective students with opportunities to learn more about foundation programmes. Immediate offers will be available to qualified candidates at the Kuala Lumpur campus, subject to terms and conditions. Information about applications, financial aid, and scholarships can be obtained via phone, email, or the university’s website.