PUTRAJAYA: A strong bridge between academia and industry is crucial to address mismatches between graduates’ skills and industry expectations. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir emphasized the importance of this connection in supporting national growth by creating a highly skilled workforce capable of driving critical sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and healthcare.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zambry highlighted that the ministry recognizes the critical role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in shaping the future. The ministry is actively embedding ICT education into the national framework while embracing digital tools to advance towards a more equitable and inclusive future. He stated that the Higher Education Ministry is committed to fostering public-private partnerships in skills training to ensure the workforce is equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. His remarks were delivered by Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud
at the Huawei ICT Competition 2024-2025 Awards Ceremony.
Zambry also noted that the Malaysia Education Blueprint (MEB) 2013-2025 underscores the importance of aligning education with industry needs, placing a strong emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a key driver of reform. The government is fully committed to equipping students with the essential tools and skill sets needed to navigate the complexities of future economies.
By introducing ICT education early, students are able to develop essential skills to prepare them for the demands of a tech-driven workforce. Zambry remarked that ICT in education fosters creativity and borderless teamwork, equipping students to thrive in an interconnected world. He also mentioned that embracing digital tools ensures inclusive and equitable learning, helping every student access the resources they need to succeed academically and professionally.
Regarding the Huawei ICT Competition, Zambry stated that the initiatives are not just build
ing skills but also shaping futures and creating opportunities for equal access to learning and growth. He acknowledged that Huawei Malaysia has established the Huawei ASEAN Academy and Huawei ICT Academies to enhance students’ ICT skills and prepare them for the evolving industries. Zambry concluded by highlighting Malaysia’s ambition to become the ASEAN Digital Capital by 2030, with the development of a strong digital talent pool at the core of this vision.