The newest member of Keele University’s College of Fellows has spoken of her pride at being inducted into its ranks.

Professor Datuk Dr Asma Ismail, who was awarded the title of Doctor of the University from Keele in 2017, became the newest member of Keele’s College of Fellows at this week’s graduation ceremonies, saying that she was honoured and very grateful to the University for the recognition.

Professor Ismail currently serves as the first female Vice-Chancellor (VC) of Universiti Sains Malaysia and was the first female VC of Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia in 2012, making her the first woman to be appointed twice as the VC of a public university. She also served as the country’s first female Director-General of Higher Education and is currently the first female President of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia.

Her contributions to higher education in Malaysia also include the establishment of the prestigious National Academic Award, the establishment of Research Universities in Malaysia and also in co-helming the development and implementation of The Malaysian Education Blueprint (Higher Education) 2013-2025.

Professor Ismail said: “I have a lot of respect for Keele, the reason being that despite the fact that we are separated by oceans, we still share the same commonalities in terms of ideas and principles.

“Keele believes in student experience, and I think this is very important because this is what it takes for a university that is excellent, with soul.

“The true north of a university is not only about being good at research, but also to be able to provide a good learning experience for the students, and I think that is of utmost importance, and also to nurture the students to be able to appreciate sustainability.

“These two elements are there in Keele, and it is very much into making sure that the students are good and balanced in their knowledge and values, and Keele cares enough about making sure their students are relevant for future society.”