When it comes to education, the STEM subjects of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics remain ever challenging when considered through a Western lens. And while it’s likely that students struggle with these topics in Eastern classrooms, Asian students continue to perform better than their western counterparts in STEM subjects as well as reading. To achieve this, an emphasis has been historically placed on problem solving skills in addition to learning achievement and performance. The effects of this approach have led to high-performing academics that are less equipped to apply their skills practically in a work environment with practical application.

The same learning models are used the world over in universities that are determined to mill out students who can demonstrate through their test-based mastery of subjects the prowess of the institutions they represent. The result is soaring test scores with fewer individuals able to apply their knowledge in the so-called real world. A recent article highlighting changes in the approach to higher education noted that this approach to teaching can also “dilute students’ imagination, creativity, and sense of self.” Mental health wellness indicators also suffer in the face of pressurized testing environments with careers and incentives on the line.

Quest International University, or QIU, has set out to change all of that. Rather than relying on exams that can benchmark student performance and understanding for educators, QIU has developed a pedagogical model that aims to shift the focus from a test score centric curriculum to one that also encourages and rewards improvement in soft skills and life skills that can make students positive and active contributors to the workplace. QIU’s experiential learning programs have produced over 2,000 graduates representing five different continents.

The learning-by-doing model ties into lectures provided by faculty who are active in their field of study, making lessons and education timely and relevant to all students involved. Practical assistance with career placement is also provided with advice in everything from professional etiquette to job interview skills.

Based in Perak, Malaysia, Quest International University was established in 2011 to address gaps in preparedness and practicality of education throughout the ASEAN region. As a private research university, QIU has a curriculum of programs primarily focused on the STEM disciplines while also offering options for business and social sciences study. Students are encouraged to participate in a holistic education that includes extracurricular activities, clinical training, and technopreneurship experience. Students are encouraged not only to excel in the classroom but also outside of it with specialized dedication to soft skills building and a passion for socio-economic development. The goal is to help guide students through their STEM learning journey in a way that also makes them active contributors to their societies in a positive way.

QIU was founded by Vijay Eswaran, a Malaysian entrepreneur and philanthropist with a personal dedication for improving the world around him. Set on creating the Harvard of the East, Eswaran’s hope is that students will be well-equipped to give back to their communities and improve the quality of life around them by receiving a more holistic approach to their education. Addressing the need for graduates to be prepared to contribute to the workforce after graduation, Quest International University also partners with a variety of employers to give students hand-on experience in their field during their coursework. As a result of this mentorship and training, over 90 percent of QIU’s graduates receive employment offers within a year of completing their studies.

Rather than putting the sole focus on grades and tangible academic performance, a holistic education is one that also concerns itself with helping students evolve emotionally, socially, and ethically. Students are encouraged to learn concepts through practical application and understanding, rather than solely by rote memorization from textbooks. The goal is to produce more well-rounded individuals who understand how and why to put their new skills to use in constructive ways for their employers and their communities. Vijay Eswaran, who is also the chairman of the University Council, explained, “Asian universities tend to focus predominantly on academic learning. We do not need more degree mills; rather, we need to empower students to transform their lives through the lasting power of education. By turning our university into a center of excellence, we hope to have a significant impact on students and their families, as well as on the economy and society as a whole.”