Education is now advancing at a fast pace, with the option of using the latest hi-tech gadgets in teaching.

Limkokwing University of Creative Technology recently went into a partnership with Maxis Bhd which allows its students to use the iPhone 3GS as one of the communication and education tools in their studies.

Besides operating as a phone and social networking device, students can use the phone to download course notes, check exam results as well as keep up to date with online notices and assignments.

“We will introduce the iPhone programme at the university,” says Limkokwing vice-president of international development Datuk Jayles Yeoh.

“Students will learn to develop mobile applications and services for the device.”

Yeoh adds that education remains the core of creative, innovative and techno-savvy human capital and by collaborating with Maxis, there is hope that many more will follow to take Malaysia to the forefront of the digital revolution.

“With the growth of and subscription to advanced mobile devices and data services, the way we connect people, institutions and businesses is being rapidly transformed,” says Maxis vice president and head of enterprise and carrier business Fitri Abdullah.

“Working together with the university will help to explore the use of the growing mobile Internet platform in the development of people and ideas for the future,” says Fitri.

“A team is currently working to introduce prepaid and postpaid plans for employees and students, and will come up with a leasing scheme to lower take-up cost.”

Beginning this month, Limkokwing’s courses which are at least one year in duration will incorporate the iPhone 3GS.

Maxis is offering the smartphone to Limkokwing’s faculty, students and their parents at preferential partnership prices.

It has selected packages with free phone calls, MMSes and SMSes for increased value.

For instance, those who subscribe to the Value Plus 150 plan enjoy up to 38 hours free phone calls and 500 free SMSes to other employees and students who are also on tailored Maxis plans catering to the Limkokwing community.

A mark of the new partnership is already visible next to the Apple Centre in Limkokwing Plaza - a Maxis Centre with specially trained service staff, offering on-site customer service and knowledge sharing with university employees and students.