UNITAR: Championing Inclusive Education and Lifelong Friendship

Best friends plan to meet for the first time at their Graduation Ceremony
 
Petaling Jaya, 26 September 2025 – In a heartwarming testament to the power of inclusive education, UNITAR celebrates not only academic achievement, but the unbreakable bonds formed through its transformative learning environment. Among the many inspiring graduates this year is Jaya Durga Muralli, a visually impaired student from the School of Education, who will meet her best friend Rinisha Sanniraj in person for the very first time at their upcoming convocation ceremony in November, after studying together online since 2022.
 
Durga and Rinisha, both have completed their Bachelor of Education and initially made acquaintance through UNITAR’s accessible and flexible online learning platform. Despite being separated by geography, Durga in Klang Selangor and Rinisha in Kedah, the two formed a deep, sister-like bond that carried them through the challenges of higher education. Their story is a powerful reminder that education is not just about degrees, it is about connection, resilience, and shared dreams.

UNITAR gave me more than just an education. It gave me a lifelong friend,

Even though I could not meet her while we were studying, I felt her presence every step of the way. We supported each other on our education journey but also in our personal struggles.
Durga’s inspiring journey has also influenced her family her, younger brother, Nedumaran has since followed in her footsteps and enrolled at UNITAR, continuing the legacy of accessible, values-driven education.
 
As a pioneer in accessible and affordable education since 1997, UNITAR continues to lead Malaysia’s education ecosystem by empowering learners from all walks of life—including those from underserved communities, working adults, and individuals with disabilities.
 
With 25 locations nationwide and a strong emphasis on digital learning, UNITAR ensures that no student is left behind.
jaya durga

Durga and her students during her internship.

Prof. Dr. Mallika Govindarajoo, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities, shared,

Durga and Rinisha’s journey is a beautiful reflection of what we strive for at UNITAR an education that uplifts, connects, and transforms. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and the friendship they have built through our learning ecosystem.

“They both have very promising careers ahead and I am certain they will make passionate and dedicated teachers,” she added.

unitar associate prof dr mallika vasugi (feh)
Prof. Dr. Mallika Govindarajoo,
Executive Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities
Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Ir. Dr. Sahol Hamid Bin Abu Bakar, Vice Chancellor of UNITAR International University, added,

Stories like Durga and Rinisha’s remind us of the deeper purpose behind education. UNITAR is not just a university—it is a nurturing community where lives are transformed, barriers are broken, and lifelong friendships are forged. We take pride in being a beacon of inclusive, values-driven education that empowers every learner to thrive.

jaya durga group

Durga, students and fellow teachers during the Teacher’s Day celebration at her school where did her internship and initially studied there as well.

As UNITAR continues to champion graduate employability, lifelong learning, and inclusive education, stories like Durga and Rinisha’s serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the human connections that make education truly meaningful and that is possible even as people make acquaintances during online lessons.
 
UNITAR is a leading private university in Malaysia, known for its commitment to accessible, inclusive, and career-ready education. With a strong presence across the country and a focus on innovation, UNITAR offers programmes from certificate to doctoral levels, empowering learners to achieve their full potential.
ABOUT UNITAR EDUCATION GROUP

UNITAR Education Group was first established in 1991 to provide inclusive learning opportunities, produce industry-ready and globally oriented graduates, and foster academic and career success.

In 1991, UNITAR College was established to provide aspiring students with the opportunity to move ahead in their education pathway with our industry-recognised Certificate, Diploma & SKM programmes.

In 1997, UNITAR International University was established as the First Virtual University in Southeast Asia and among the earliest private universities in the country. It is the first institution in Asia to be awarded a QS 5-Star Rating for the Online Learning category.

In 2006, Kuala Lumpur Metropolitan University College (KLMUC) was established in the heart of Kuala Lumpur as a progressive and innovative higher learning institution with two distinctive faculties and one centre offering 18 programmes.

In 2016, UNITAR Academy was also established as a Professional Development Centre, focused on skyrocketing talent development strategies. Through rigorous preparation, we provide continuous learning opportunities for the working class, creating endless career opportunities for the next generation of leaders. On-Campus or Online, the Academy is suited for all your developmental needs.

In alignment with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, UNITAR’s holistic and innovative learning ecosystem provides a comprehensive programme offering for all socio-economic levels whilst developing highly employable and entrepreneurial global citizens.

Media Contact
Josephine Dionisappu
Head of Corporate Communications
UNITAR Education Group
ym.ratinuobfsctd-87de49@uppasinoid.enihpesoj
+60 12 376 0029

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