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Entrepreneurial Mindset Key To Graduate Employability: UOC Pro-chancellor

Cyberjaya: An entrepreneurial mindset should be embedded more deeply in Malaysia's higher education system to develop graduates with long-term employability, moving beyond the traditional focus of preparing them primarily for their first job. University of Cyberjaya (UOC) Pro-Chancellor Tan Sri Dr R Palan emphasized the need for universities, industry, and policymakers to strengthen the ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship and innovation at the national level. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Palan highlighted the importance of providing access to funding, industry networks, mentorship, and opportunities for experimentation. He noted that an entrepreneurial mindset encompasses qualities such as initiative, critical thinking, innovation, calculated risk-taking, and the ability to turn ideas into action. These qualities are crucial for graduates in a dynamic global economy, which is being transformed by rapid technological changes, while also preparing them for an uncertain future. Palan elaborated that these attributes are vital for graduates working within established organizations, where they can practice 'intrapreneurship' by developing new products, services, processes, and solutions. He distinguished between employment and employability, emphasizing the importance of remaining relevant and adaptable throughout one's career. Universities, he said, should focus not only on imparting academic knowledge and technical skills but also on developing broader capabilities. Palan also praised the Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint 2026-2035 for its focus on developing humanity-centric, entrepreneurial, and adaptive learners. He stressed the importance of collaboration among universities, industry, and policymakers to translate the Blueprint's aspirations into tangible capabilities for students. Furthermore, Palan argued that entrepreneurship education should allow students to experiment, test ideas, and learn from setbacks within a supportive environment. He emphasized that the entrepreneurial mindset is abou t creating individuals who can identify opportunities, solve problems, and act upon ideas, rather than simply following instructions. On the topic of artificial intelligence (AI), Palan advised universities to embrace technological change and equip students with the skills to use AI responsibly and effectively. He highlighted the need for AI literacy as a basic capability for graduates, given the technology's transformative impact on workplaces. Palan concluded by addressing the evolving gap between university education and industry requirements, stressing the importance of lifelong employability over merely securing a first job. He called for a broader discussion on the effectiveness of higher education, focusing on graduate outcomes such as underemployment, career mobility, and continuous learning.

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