University of Stirling celebrates record group of Singapore graduates

The University of Stirling has celebrated a record number of graduates from its programmes delivered in partnership with the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM).

A ceremony recognised the achievements of more than 170 graduates in BA Marketing, BA Events Management, BA Sports Studies and Marketing and BA Digital Media.

Joining the students at graduation was business leader Dr Andrew Lim Tatt Keong, who received an Honorary Degree for his outstanding contribution to the Malaysian retail sector and his involvement in numerous charitable and community support initiatives.

Dr Lim trained as an advocate and solicitor at University College Cardiff and passed the bar exams at Middle Temple (London) in 1981, going on to specialise in banking, commercial conveyancing and international contracts and trade.

He moved into the retail sector at the turn of the millennium and has developed a diverse portfolio of brands that includes department stores, supermarkets and convenience outlets. Dr Lim has earned a reputation as someone who is able to transform and reinvigorate underperforming businesses, while advocating supportive employment policies and the promotion of sustainable business practices.

At the same time, he also supports a number of charitable interests, including fundraising and food distribution for orphanages and work with the Rotary Club International, Malaysian Judo Association and Penang School Scouts.

Dr Andrew Lim Tatt Keong received an Honorary Degree for his outstanding contribution to the Malaysian retail sector. 

Dr Andrew TK Lim said: “It has been a privilege and highly educational experience to learn from Professor Paul Freathy of the University of Stirling over the years. His knowledge and passion greatly enlightened us on our study tours and retail seminars in the United Kingdom.

“I am humbled and simultaneously truly honoured to receive an Honorary Doctorate from the esteemed University of Stirling.

“I accept this sterling honour and consider this conferment as a tribute to the collective achievements of our wonderful teams of brand partners and fellow colleagues in Malaysia and Singapore, to whom we owe our heartfelt gratitude for their dedication, tireless work and unstinting support over the past three decades of our ventures in international retailing.

“As someone who studied and completed my tertiary education and professional qualifications in the United Kingdom, I bear testimony to and hold British university degrees in the highest regard. And the University of Stirling stands out, especially in international retailing and marketing.

“Once again I thank the academic council of the University of Stirling for this remarkable honour and milestone.”

International partnership

The University of Stirling formed an international partnership with SIM in 2011, which sees students taught in Singapore by academic staff from the University. Those studying can choose from four courses on offer and earn a University of Stirling degree.

Professor Sir Gerry McCormac, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Stirling, said: “On behalf of the University of Stirling, I send my warmest congratulations to our students graduating in Singapore today. We’re proud of the efforts of all our graduates and wish them the very best as they step into the next chapter of their lives.

“We also congratulate Dr Lim on his honorary degree in recognition of his contributions to the retail sector, and his involvement in charitable and community initiatives. His achievements as a socially responsible business leader offer a valuable example for our graduates as they embark on their careers.”

Those graduating included Diyanah Aqidah Binte Muhammad Dian Khudhairi, an international taekwondo athlete who juggled earning a BA (Hons) Sports Studies and Marketing with her gruelling training schedule as she represented Singapore at the World Poomsae Championships and Southeast Asian Games.

She said: “My experience was very positive – the professors were always approachable and supportive, which made learning enjoyable. Balancing sport and studies have been challenging but rewarding. I feel proud to have represented Singapore internationally while pursuing my degree, and I hope to inspire others to chase both academic and sporting dreams.”

Also among the graduates was Heather Wong Xue’er, who graduated with a BA (Hons) Digital Media, and relished the opportunity to travel to Scotland during her studies. She said: “I enjoyed my exchange, it was the first time I was away from my family and I would choose to go back again. It really taught me how to have a good work-life balance.

“I joined netball recreation, took free classes with my University of Stirling gym membership, like yoga and Pilates, and went to the mountains near our campus. All of these are experiences I would love to do again.”

Invaluable learning

Nicholas Wang Zi Heng, who graduated with a BA (Hons) Marketing, added: “Working with people, sometimes with very different perspectives from mine, has been an invaluable learning experience, teaching me that the world is much larger than my viewpoint, and that growth often comes from stepping outside my comfort zone.”

Adriana Yao Binte Mohamed Iskandar, a graduate of the BA (Hons) Events Management course, said: “My experience has been incredibly rewarding and transformative. It was truly a journey of learning, growth and connections. I gained not only knowledge, but lifelong friendships and invaluable experiences that I will carry with me into the next chapter of my life.”

The graduates from the University of Stirling SIM partnership join a Stirling alumni community of more than 115,000 worldwide. 

Professor Neville Wylie, Senior Deputy Principal at the University of Stirling, said: “It was an honour to attend the ceremony, as our partnership with the Singapore Institute of Management continues to thrive. This year marked a significant milestone, with a record number of graduates completing our programmes.

“At the University of Stirling, we are immensely proud of our global links – including our education partnerships which continue to offer life-changing opportunities to students across the world. Congratulations to all of those graduating today – we wish everyone all the best in their future careers.”