Ensure polytechnic, community college grads secure jobs matching their skills - Zambry

KOTA KINABALU – Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, Higher Education Minister, emphasized that the employability rate of polytechnics and community colleges should not solely be evaluated by percentages. The minister stressed that graduates must secure jobs that align with their skills, offer promising career prospects, and provide suitable income.

Dr Zambry urged educational institutions to collaborate closely with the industry from curriculum development through employment opportunities. Rapid technological advancements in AI, automation, robotics, green technology, cybersecurity, and the digital economy have transformed the employment landscape, necessitating graduates who possess problem-solving abilities, technological expertise, creativity, and adaptability.

The TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) has evolved into a primary career pathway for the younger generation, supported by the TVET 2.0 Agenda, which highlights high-demand sectors like AI, robotics, and renewable energy. Dr Zambry highlighted that the Ministry of Higher Education has designated polytechnics and community colleges as the TVET Pioneer, aligning with the Malaysia Higher Education Plan 2026-2035 and the Polytechnic and Community College Strategic Plan 2026-2035.

Sabah's polytechnics and community colleges, numbering 36 and 106 respectively, play a vital role in providing education and developing local talent in the state. These institutions are crucial to supporting economic growth in sectors such as energy, oil and gas, tourism, modern agriculture, construction, the digital economy, logistics, and the blue economy.

Dr Zambry announced that five more polytechnics will soon offer degree-level study programs in technical and engineering fields, with four already offering such programs. This initiative aims to meet the workforce requirements and ensure polytechnic education remains closely aligned with industry needs.