Dr. Cassidy Morris Appointed Adjunct Professor At UTS

Posted on 18 Apr 2025
Source of News: UKAS


SIBU: The Director of the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR), Dr. Cassidy Morris, has been appointed as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS).

The appointment, announced during a special ceremony at the Tun Taib Chancellor Hall on Thursday, is aimed at strengthening ties between academia and industry, particularly in the field of civil engineering.

According to UTS Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Mohammad Shahril Osman, Dr. Cassidy’s appointment is expected to offer students direct exposure to real-world industry practices and insights.

"Through this appointment, students will be introduced to the practical demands of the civil engineering sector, including key areas involving JKR Sarawak. It is an opportunity for them to learn from a seasoned industry leader and gain first-hand understanding of what awaits them beyond graduation," he said during a press conference following the ceremony and a motivational talk session.

Dr. Cassidy, in expressing his gratitude for the appointment, described it as an exciting new challenge that reflects his ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineering professionals in Sarawak.

He emphasised that JKR Sarawak, as the lead implementing agency for infrastructure development in the state, sees the adjunct professorship as a bridge connecting industry realities with academic theory.

“Institutions of higher learning often focus on theoretical knowledge, while industry emphasises real-world application. This collaboration helps align both spheres and ensures that students are better prepared for their future careers,” he explained.

Dr. Cassidy added that students would benefit from being exposed to current trends and challenges in the industry, helping them to better understand how classroom learning translates into practical outcomes.

“By giving students a realistic picture of the working world, even if it doesn’t always align perfectly with their textbooks, they are better equipped to adapt. My role as an Adjunct Professor is to help facilitate that understanding,” he said.

He also acknowledged UTS for the opportunity and pledged to contribute actively to the university’s mission of producing industry-ready graduates.

“As an industry practitioner, I look forward to sharing my experiences and helping students navigate the evolving landscape of civil engineering. I thank UTS for this honour,” he added.

The ceremony marked another step in UTS’s ongoing efforts to foster collaboration between academia and industry, ensuring that its graduates possess not only theoretical knowledge but also practical insight that will serve them well in their professional journeys. - UKASnews