Seberang perai: The Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) field is no longer regarded as a second choice but has become a primary pathway in producing a competent and globally competitive professional workforce.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Polytechnic and Community College Education Department (JPPKK) deputy director-general (Planning) Dr. Shamsuri Abdullah highlighted the effectiveness of TVET through the accomplishments of polytechnics and community colleges (PolyCC), which recorded a 98.8 percent graduate employability rate last year. This reflects the industry’s confidence in the quality of education offered.
Dr. Shamsuri noted that PolyCC graduates do not face difficulties in securing employment due to the hands-on approach of the learning system. The curriculum is regularly reviewed in collaboration with industry partners to ensure alignment with current job market demands and needs.
He emphasized the role of the Polytechnic Industry Advisory Council (MPIP), which operates both nationally and within each polytechnic. The council provides guidance on various industry-related aspects to ensure educational programmes align with industry needs.
Dr. Shamsuri also mentioned that the JPPKK had faced demand beyond its capacity for PolyCC enrolment, indicating the public’s growing awareness of available learning opportunities and career paths that could shape their future. Skills gained in TVET enable graduates not only to find employment but also to pursue entrepreneurship or their own businesses.
The system supports graduates in pursuing higher studies, working in their field, or starting businesses, making PolyCC a significant contributor with over 40 percent of post-SPM students choosing TVET majors. The JPPKK is continuously reviewing programmes, especially in emerging sectors like energy, electrical and electronics, to meet the needs of high-tech industries such as the semiconductor sector.
Dr. Shamsuri stated that modifications are underway, including interventions to help graduates enter the industry more smoothly and secure higher starting salaries.
Earlier at the 24th Seberang Perai Polytechnic (PSP) Convocation Ceremony, Dr. Shamsuri presented the Director’s Award to two recipients, Muhammad Razin Abdul Wahab and Dhia Awatif Mohd Nadzli, graduates in Diploma in Accountancy and Diploma in Logistics Management, respectively. Seven graduates received the Academic and Co-Curricular Excellence Award, while a total of 1,093 graduates received their scrolls at the ceremony.