SIBU: University and industry collaboration is crucial to provide students with practical exposure and experience on real-world problems.
This is especially important in the engineering and technical fields, said Vice Chancellor of University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) Prof. Datuk Dr Khairuddin Ab Hamid.
He said the collaboration which saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the university and George Kent (Malaysia) Berhad (George Kent) is important to bridge the gap between academic understanding and practical skills.
“Even though Sibu is developing and progressing well, the presence of major industry players is still much to be desired.
“Therefore, UTS has to take a proactive approach to establish and engage with industry partners elsewhere. Hence, we are very grateful and honoured to have this opportunity to collaborate with a well-known engineering company, namely George Kent Berhad.
“In line with the vision of the Sarawak government, via the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, this partnership between UTS and George Kent can lead to innovation and new technological discoveries.
“By working together, researchers and industry experts can develop new technologies and products that can benefit society as a whole,” he said during the signing ceremony here on today (June 7).
Dr Khairuddin said the signing of this MoU is an important opportunity for both parties to address the skills gap that exists in many industries.
“By working together, UTS and George Kent can jointly design courses or training modules that are tailored to the needs of George Kent for its staff development programmes.
“We also can work together to develop specific professional programmes for our final year students so that they have the technical and soft skills that are required by employers.
“I also would like to urge the students to take this opportunity to apply for internship, industrial training or work placement with good companies like George Kent.
“I am sure George Kent can provide students with precious experience and industry connections which are important for their career development,” he said.
Under the MoU, both parties aim to cooperate on the development and conduct of academic, professional and industrial training programmes, exchange technical know-how and advisory, carry out joint research, innovation and teaching activities as well as jointly participate in course improvements and delivery.
The MoU will be effective from the date of its execution for a period of three years.
Meanwhile, George Kent chairman, Tan Sri Dato’ Tan Kay Hock said the collaboration serves as a community engagement and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, enabling George Kent to actively contribute to the betterment of society.
“By partnering with UTS, George Kent will support local initiatives and programmes that make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and the communities.
“We are also pleased to explore the potential synergistic collaboration with UTS as we look towards educating UTS engineering graduates with practical, engineering knowledge as they enter the workforce in this rapidly developing technological era.
“This MoU is a collaboration that enables George Kent to empower UTS graduates to be part of Malaysia’s engineering sector,” he said.
