SCaT Fair has gone through many changes through the years, evolving with state aspirations to ignite dreams and uncover opportunities.
Nestled in the vibrant tapestry of Sarawak’s aspirations, the Sarawak Career and Training (SCaT) Fair has evolved into a transformative force since its inception in December 2012. Spearheaded by Tabung Gagasan Ekonomi Anak Sarawak (TEGAS), the fair has become an annual pilgrimage for those seeking educational and career opportunities. This narrative is not just about a fair; it’s a chronicle of Sarawak’s commitment to cultivating a skilled workforce for the future.
Evolution of SCaT Fair:
SCaT Fair originated as a response to Sarawak’s economic shift toward an industry-based model, aligning with the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE). TEGAS played a pivotal role in changing perceptions about technical fields and skills, transforming SCaT Fair into a vital platform for showcasing further studies, training, careers, and financial aid opportunities. Since its initial success, SCaT Fair has continued to adapt to the evolving job market trends, incorporating side programs for various topics across booming industries.
SCaT Fair Chronicles: Aligning to State Aspirations and Growth
2017 — A Digital Symphony of Opportunities:
In 2017, the SCaT Fair orchestrated a symphony of possibilities with Sarawak’s digital economy transformation. With 71 education institutions, 60 companies, and eight agencies participating, the fair showcased over 3,000 job opportunities. This edition marked the inception of programs like the Sarawak Fashion Awards, Youth Got Skills, and the STEM Playground, each contributing to a diverse and dynamic landscape of skills development.
The 2017 edition is where the STEM Playground first made its debut. The exhibition emerged as a trendy space for children and students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through interactive projects, aligning with Sarawak’s vision of digital economy transformation.
2018 — Crafting Futures, Building Careers:
The seventh edition of the SCaT Fair in 2018 witnessed an expansive horizon of opportunities. With 153 exhibitors, including financial aid providers, job providers, training providers, and government agencies, the fair embraced diversity. Due to its popularity among visitors, the STEM Playground returned as a SCaT Fair main stay, which expanded with 18 agencies and showcased diverse activities encouraging the exploration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. New activities like Next Big Chef and Hackweekend Kch added vibrancy, underscoring the fair’s role as a multifaceted platform.
2019 — Navigating the Fourth Industrial Revolution:
In 2019, the SCaT Fair focused on preparing Sarawak for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Amidst 2,609 job opportunities, the fair emphasised science and technology skills. The Go4TVET initiative showcased various TVET-related activities, including robot football competitions, photography, cake decorating, fruit carving, and makeup challenges.
SCaT Fair 2019 emerged as a convergence point for innovation and employment. The Go4TVET initiative highlighted TVET-related activities, providing a platform for youths to showcase their talents through demonstrations and competitions. The fair encompassed various talks and seminars, covering topics such as employability, entrepreneurship, digital economy, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), motivation, and innovation.
2023 — A Resilient Return with TVET and STEM Focus:
After a hiatus due to the pandemic, SCaT Fair 2023 returned with renewed vigour, redefining its focus on TVET and STEM programs. Beyond traditional career and educational exhibitions, the fair encompassed a broader spectrum, including the STEM Playground, TVET Battlefield, Talent Stage, and Borneo Maker Festival. This edition, supported by approximately 30 exhibitors from companies and institutions, showcased 1,300 job vacancies and a variety of engaging competitions, embodying the resilience of Sarawak’s commitment to innovation and education.
The fair has since broadened its scope, focusing on technical and vocational education and training (TVET), science and mathematics education programs, and engineering and technology (STEM) as side programs. It served as a ‘One Stop Centre’ for students, youths, parents, and the community to gather information on education and career opportunities. Concurrent events like STEM Playground, TVET Battlefield, Talent Stage, and Borneo Maker Festival offered a holistic experience for participants.
Current Impact and Future Vision:
SCaT Fair has transcended its initial purpose, becoming a dynamic hub for empowering individuals. The fair delivers crucial information on financial aid, enhances employability, and nurtures STEM interest among the youth. Collaborative efforts between TEGAS and government agencies like the Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development exemplify a shared commitment to shaping Sarawak’s future through innovation and education.
In the backdrop of lush landscapes and thriving communities, SCaT Fair continues to unfold new chapters, each edition contributing to the tapestry of Sarawak’s educational and economic landscape. As the fair evolves, it remains a symbol of progress, opportunity, and the unwavering spirit of Sarawak’s youth.
References
- SCaT Fair a must visit for school leavers
- SCaT 2018 a platform for youths to look for jobs
- Opportunities aplenty at SCaT Fair 2019 for school leavers, graduates
- ScaTFair: The Best Platform in Discovering Training and Career Opportunities
- SCaT Fair 2023 Bantu Penuhi Keperluan Pekerjaan Industri Semasa
- SCaT Fair Berjaya Tarik 20,000 Pengunjung Setiap Tahun
- KARNIVAL SCAT FAIR KUCHING 2023
- SCaT FAIR turut fokus program TVET dan STEM
