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Recently, students from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) dual degree programme took part in the De Montfort University (DMU) Summer School 2025 in Leicester, United Kingdom (UK).

The immersive programme gathered students from diverse backgrounds for a week of academic exploration, cultural discovery, and professional development.

Additionally, it was a transformative experience that not only introduced students to the UK’s dynamic educational and cultural landscape, but also created opportunities for meaningful exchange, collaboration, and personal growth beyond the classroom.

Stepping into the DMU Experience

The programme began with APU students being guided to the DMU Campus Centre, where they were warmly welcomed and introduced to the university’s facilities.

This initial orientation set a welcoming tone, as students navigated their way through the heart of the campus, while learning about the support structures and opportunities available to them throughout the programme.

It was also an important moment for students to connect with peers from different countries, fostering the beginnings of friendships and collaborative relationships.

From Collaboration to Cultural discovery

Central to the programme was the opportunity for APU students to immerse themselves in collaborative project work.

Students were challenged to engage in discussions, brainstorm solutions, and present ideas in a way that emphasised teamwork, leadership, and creativity.

This academic exercise not only enhanced their problem-solving skills, but also highlighted the importance of working effectively in multicultural teams.

Alongside the academic focus, students embarked on a history tour of Leicester, which brought a cultural dimension to their experience. 

By walking through the city’s historic streets and exploring its heritage, they gained valuable context about the local environment, while deepening their appreciation of how history shapes communities. 

Exploring Fantasy, Experiencing Innovation

A highlight of the programme was undoubtedly the trip to Warner Bros Studio, where APU students stepped into the magical world of Harry Potter.

This excursion offered a refreshing cultural and creative break from the academic setting, giving students the chance to explore one of the UK’s most popular attractions.

For many, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that combined enjoyment with the exploration of storytelling, creativity, and entertainment industries on a global scale.

Back on campus, students were also immersed in the digital frontier through a trading room demonstration and an engaging workshop on Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs).

These workshops provided students with hands-on exposure to financial technology tools and computer science concepts, allowing them to connect theory with practice, while gaining insights into the real-world applications of emerging technologies and the ways digital transformation continues to shape industries worldwide.

Building Employability and expanding Horizons

Career readiness was a strong focus of the programme, and the employability workshop provided APU students with practical knowledge and strategies for navigating their professional futures.

Students reflected on their strengths, worked on enhancing their communication and presentation skills, and gained insights into what global employers look for in graduates.

This exposure to career-focused training helped to strengthen their confidence in approaching future opportunities, whether in Malaysia or abroad.

Beyond the classroom, the experience was enriched by a day trip to London, where students explored the cultural and economic heart of the UK.

From its historic landmarks to its dynamic cityscape, London gave students the opportunity to observe how global cities operate and thrive, linking what they learned academically with real-world urban and cultural experiences.

Showcasing Growth, shaping futures

As the programme approached its conclusion, APU students took part in the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) workshop, which placed global responsibility and sustainability at the forefront of their learning.

Students engaged in discussions about pressing world issues, reflected on how the UN’s goals connect to their fields of study, and explored the role of young leaders in contributing to a more sustainable future.

The week ended with a showcase of student projects, where they confidently presented their work, sharing the skills and knowledge gained throughout the programme.

For the students, it was a meaningful conclusion to a week filled with growth, collaboration, and cultural exchange, leaving them inspired to take their learning back home and apply it in their own academic and professional contexts.

Global Lessons, Lasting Impact

Mr Muhammad Nabil Danial Mohd Zaini (Senior Executive, University Placement, of Student Services and Marketing at APU) reflected on the success of the DMU Summer School 2025, noting the strength of the programme’s design and the impactful learning moments it delivered to APU students.

Mr Nabil, who was also in charge of accompanying the students throughout the programme, highlighted that the combination of academic workshops, project-based learning, cultural excursions, and employability-focused sessions provided a holistic experience that went beyond the classroom.

This, he noted, perfectly aligned with APU’s goals of delivering impactful and transformative global learning opportunities.

Adding to this, Prof Dr Andy Seddon (Senior Director, Partnerships and Standards at APU) emphasised that international programmes such as the DMU Summer School 2025 are equally valuable for broadening personal growth and adaptability.

“Such experiences challenge our students to step out of their comfort zones, navigate new environments, and gain the confidence to thrive in unfamiliar settings.

“Beyond academics, they learn resilience, independence, and the ability to collaborate with peers from diverse cultures, which helps them become not only skilled in their disciplines, but also agile, empathetic, and ready to lead on the global stage,” he said.

Highlights and upcoming Opportunities

For a more comprehensive look featuring APU students and students from various partner universities, check out the full video on YouTube via here

APU’s dual degree programme students can look forward to the next exciting chapter of the DMU Summer School in 2026.

Details of the programme, including participation opportunities and application information, will be announced in the coming months.

Keep an eye on APU’s communication channels for the latest updates and announcements.