About Centre for Academic Advancement and Flexible Learning (CAFEL)
Driving Academic Excellence, Transforming Learning Futures
At Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), the Centre for Academic Advancement and Flexible Learning (CAFEL) stands at the forefront of the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching, and transformative learning experiences.
CAFEL was established as a strategic centre to advance the quality of teaching and learning, strengthen academic programmes, and expand access to education through flexible and digital learning pathways. By bringing together expertise in pedagogy, curriculum development, and educational technology, CAFEL plays a pivotal role in shaping a future-ready academic ecosystem.
Through flexible and digital learning initiatives such as ODL, micro-credentials, and technology-enhanced learning, CAFEL also expands access to education and prepares both educators and students for a dynamic, future-ready learning environment.
Learning Innovation and Faculty Transformation (LIFT)
The Learning Innovation, Faculty & Student Transformation (LIFT) unit within CAFEL is dedicated to advancing teaching excellence and student-centred learning at UNITEN. LIFT serves as a catalyst in elevating the academic experience by bridging cutting‑edge pedagogical theory with transformative classroom practice. It advances innovative in teaching approaches, while fostering a culture of pedagogical innovation that enhances effectiveness, student learning experiences and academic success.
Our Role
LIFT acts as the university’s academic development and innovation hub, supporting the transformation of teaching practices and learning experiences through:
- Adoption of innovative and evidence-based pedagogies
- The adoption of innovative and evidence‑based pedagogical approaches
- Continuous professional development of academic staff
- Empowerment of students as active and self-directed learners
- Empowering students as active, engaged and self‑directed learners
- The promotion of reflective and impactful teaching practices
What We Do
1. Teaching & Learning Innovation
2. Faculty Professional Development
3. Student Empowerment in Learning
4. Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL)
5. Teaching Excellence & Mentorship
Programme Enchancement and Flexible Learning (PACE)
The Programme Advancement & Curriculum Excellence (PACE) unit under CAFEL plays a central role in ensuring that academic programmes at UNITEN are high-quality, relevant, and future-ready. PACE supports faculties and academic departments in the design, development, review, and continuous improvement of academic programmes, aligned with national standards and industry expectations.
Our Role
PACE serves as the university’s academic advisory and quality support hub, working closely with faculties to ensure that all programmes:
- Comply with the Malaysian Qualifications Framework (MQF) and Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) requirements
- Align with Outcome-Based Education (OBE) principles
- Meet industry needs and future workforce demands
- Deliver meaningful and measurable student learning outcomes
What We Do
1. Academic Programme Development & Review
2. Curriculum Design & Alignment
3. Quality Assurance & Accreditation Support
4. Academic Policies & Governance
5. Programme Performance & Continuous Improvement
Flexible Learning Experience (FLEX)
At UNITEN, learning is not limited to conventional programmes alone. Through the Flexible Learning Experience (FLEX), UNITEN also offers Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes and micro-credential (MC) courses to support more flexible learning pathways.
These offerings are designed for learners with different goals. Some may wish to pursue a more structured academic programme through flexible delivery, while others may prefer a shorter and more focused course to develop specific knowledge or skills. FLEX reflects UNITEN’s commitment to providing accessible learning opportunities that support lifelong learning, professional development, and academic progression.
Refer to the offerings below to start your flexible learning journey at UNITEN.
Micro-credential (MC)
A micro-credential is a certification of learning for a smaller set of courses, modules, or units that is designed to provide learners with knowledge, skills, values, and competencies in a narrower area of study or practice.
Micro-credential courses are suitable for learners who want a more focused learning experience without enrolling in a full programme. They are useful for upskilling, reskilling, professional development, or exploring a specific topic of interest in a more targeted way.
Learners may consider joining a micro-credential course if they want to:
- build a specific skill or competency,
- gain knowledge in a focused area,
- learn within a shorter duration,
- support career or professional development.
Open and Distance Learning (ODL)
Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is a recognised mode of programme delivery used by MQA for accredited higher education offerings delivered through flexible learning arrangements.
ODL programmes are more suitable for learners who wish to pursue a structured academic programme while requiring greater flexibility in how learning is accessed and managed. This mode is helpful for learners who may be balancing study with work, family, or other responsibilities.
Learners may consider joining an ODL programme if they want to:
- pursue a formal academic qualification,
- study through a more flexible mode,
- continue their education while managing other commitments,
- access a more structured programme beyond short-course learning.
Director’s Message
Welcome to the Centre for Academic Advancement and Flexible Learning (CAFEL) at Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN). I am delighted to welcome you to our online space where you can discover our pivotal role in enhancing teaching and learning, curriculum development, and professional growth.
CAFEL is dedicated to supporting UNITEN's vision of becoming a leading global energy university that contributes to a sustainable future. We strive to advance knowledge and improve learning experiences through both conventional and digital educational methods. Our efforts are aligned with the latest educational technologies and industry developments, ensuring that our practices are in harmony with the national higher education blueprint.
Our commitment extends to curriculum enhancement and the continuous professional development of educators. We actively engage with external stakeholders, including industry leaders, government bodies, and other academic institutions, to foster collaboration and drive societal progress.
As you navigate our webpage, we hope you find valuable insights into how CAFEL supports the quality and excellence of education at UNITEN. For any questions or feedback, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for visiting CAFEL’s webpage and for your interest in our initiatives.
Ts. Dr. Jehana Ermy binti Jamaluddin
Director of CAFEL
