Sarawak: Sarawak’s i-CATS University College today exchanged Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Letters of Intent (LoIs) with 19 industries and 22 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, with the aim of strengthening strategic networks for workforce development in the state. The exchange ceremony was witnessed by Sarawak Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapa’ee.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Annuar emphasized that both academics and industries play a crucial role in realizing the state government’s policies. He noted that without alignment between academic vision and government policies, as well as active support from the industry sector, achieving these policies within the expected timeframe would be challenging. Dr Annuar highlighted that the ceremony marks a significant step in ensuring Sarawak’s progress toward becoming a carbon-free, developed state and a region that fosters the development of green technology.
Meanwhile, i-CATS vice-chancellor Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi stated that the exchange of LoIs with 22 TVET institutions reflects the university college’s commitment to developing a robust linkage system supporting academic mobility and lifelong learning. This initiative aims to provide graduates from polytechnics, vocational colleges, community colleges, and technical colleges with a direct pathway to further their studies in diploma and bachelor’s degree programmes at i-CATS.
Prof Kadim explained that i-CATS is actively promoting technology-based academic programmes, providing a clear academic pathway for students to continue their studies up to the master’s and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) levels. He added that this collaboration bridges the gap between technical training and higher education, offering a more accessible, affordable, and achievable future for students across Sarawak.
Additionally, Prof Kadim mentioned that i-CATS is implementing various strategic initiatives with the goal of achieving full university status by 2026. Key steps include the development of new faculties such as the Faculty of Energy Transition, the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, and the establishment of the i-CATS Digital Business School.