KUCHING: Polytechnics here have been urged to play a role in the digital transformation agenda to maintain competitiveness.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this is to enable the institution to produce graduates who are technologically competent and versatile.
“On the other hand, the government always ensures that students are ready to venture into jobs and equips them with skills that are relevant to the needs of industry in line with Sarawak’s aspirations to become a developed state by 2030,” he said.
Abang Johari said this in his speech read by Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapa’ee during the Politeknik Kuching Sarawak’s 31st Convocation Ceremony on Sunday (May 14).
He also extended his congratulations to the institutions that proactively led the way in pioneering diverse high-impact fields, aligning with industry requirements to drive the country’s advancement.
“For Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates, especially polytechnic graduates, career opportunities are not limited to conventional jobs alone.
“As such, TVET graduates are strongly encouraged to explore entrepreneurship as well as opportunities in the digital and technical sectors, which have the potential to generate employment opportunities for the community,” he said.
In order to enhance education in the state, Abang Johari said the Sarawak government has set up the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development in collaboration with the Malaysia Ministry of Education (MoE).
“Among the efforts carried out by the Ministry include promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, improving English language proficiency and providing a conducive learning environment in schools,” he said.
In addition, he said, the National Economic Recovery Plan’s (Penjana) Career Advancement Programme under the Ministry of Higher Education is an initiative of the Malaysian government to support graduates and address unemployment challenges arising from the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This programme offers graduates the opportunity to enhance their skills and secure employment placements upon successful completion of the programme,” he said.
A total of 999 graduates from 13 different courses received their convocation scrolls at the ceremony.
