MACHANG, 19 August - The International Conference on Student Development 2024 (ISDev 2024), organized by the Department of Student Affairs at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Kelantan, was held online on 13th August, 2024. This milestone event, marking the first international conference organized by the department, attracted participants from local and international higher learning institutions, all united in the common goal of exploring holistic student development.

Centered around the theme, "Holistic Student Development: Resilient and Excellent Souls in Malaysia Madani," the conference focused on nurturing well-rounded, resilient individuals who embody the principles of ‘Malaysia Madani’. Discussions were segmented into a wide range of sub-themes, including economy, university, philosophy, sports, leadership, career, technology, politics, religion, health, psychology, volunteerism, art and culture, co-curriculum, and education.

The conference was organized by the Department of Student Affairs at UiTM Cawangan Kelantan, with support from co-organizers including the Department of Research, Industrial Linkages, Community and Alumni, the Student Representative Council, the Supreme Council of Residential College, and the Supreme Council of Club and Association, all from UiTM Cawangan Kelantan. This event's international scope was further enhanced through strategic partnerships with prestigious institutions such as Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan and Universitas Sumatera Utara from Indonesia, Prince of Songkhla University from Thailand, Cagayan State University from the Philippines, and SM IMTIAZ Yayasan Terengganu Besut (iBEST), from the state of Terengganu, Malaysia.

The conference featured keynote speeches from eminent scholars who have provided deep insights into various aspects of student development. Notable speakers included Professor Dr Hj. Mohd Sazili Shahibi from Universiti Teknologi MARA, Dr. Gatot Sugiharto, S.H., M.H from Universitas Ahmad Dahlan in Indonesia, and Professor Dr. Ritha F. Dalimunthe, S.E., M.Si from Universitas Sumatera Utara in Indonesia.

The event was officially inaugurated by Professor Dr. Azlinda Azman, the Director General of Higher Education from Malaysia's Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), underscoring the conference's significance in advancing student development efforts.

A total of 66 research papers were presented, covering a broad spectrum of topics within the conference's sub-themes. These presentations highlighted innovative research and practical insights, contributing significantly to the body of knowledge on student development. In recognition of outstanding contributions, awards were presented to the best presenters and best papers in each category. These accolades celebrated academic excellence and the impactful research shared during the conference, encouraging continued scholarly engagement and innovation

Overall, the International Conference on Student Development 2024 was a groundbreaking event that successfully brought together academics, researchers, and students from across the globe. It has provided a platform for meaningful discussions on holistic student development, laying a strong foundation for future collaborations and initiatives aimed at cultivating resilient and excellent individuals in line with ‘Malaysia Madani’ vision.

Prepared by:
Dr Nik Muzaiman Mustapha
Program Report Committee
The International Conference on Student Development 2024