University Problems of a Different Kind

In Malaysia there has been a long debate on the merits on university entrance based on STPM results and the Matriculation exams.
Some compare the two as “apples and oranges” or other disparaging terms.

So far no one has done any comparative studies on the two methods of admission, as research is not a strong suit at local universities. But our universities have produced more than 60,000 unemployable or unemployed graduates.

Some people in the streets say, “It’s the economy, stupid.” If you look at the lack lustre KLCI, you realise that even though the fixed exchange rate has been replaced, the stock market is in the doldrums.

In South Korea, the government administers the Korea University Entrance Exams but it appears that they too are having some problems in that the Seoul National University considers the exams not adequate to enable them to screen candidates.

The annual exams is a massive exercise and on that day, all offices start an hour later as the whole nation takes part to help students get to the exams on time. Late-comers can even ask the police for a ride to the exams and it is interesting to see how a developing nation ensures that only qualified students are enrolled. You can retake the exam so if you don’t do well, you can try again.

Maybe Malaysia could recruit a few South Korean academics to strengthen the local universities.

Photo: malaysiakini