In Sarawak’s bid to become a high-income economy by 2030, Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has become a significant focus for the state.
Therefore the state government, private corporations and NGOs are creating greater awareness of the importance of TVET, especially among the youth.
This focus is not only in line with the current workforce demands at the state level but also at the national and international level.
Here are some of the reasons why you should choose to study a course related to TVET:
1. TVET jobs are in demand
The reason why developed nations such as Germany and Japan are able to have sustained growth in their economy is because they have always promoted TVET in their education system.
Through strategic partnerships established between the institutions of higher education and industry partners, students are not only exposed to the working environment but also have higher chances of securing jobs after completing their studies.
With the development of the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE), it is estimated that the industries will require more than 60,000 skilled and semi-skilled workers by 2030.
This presents a unique opportunity for young people to undertake the necessary education and training to meet the needs of the international companies setting up their operations in SCORE.
2. Generate a lucrative salary
Before the price of oil started plummeting in recent years, it was common for those working in the oil and gas industry to earn a big salary, which was largely due to the specific skills of each worker. An underwater welder for example, is not only required to perform welding but must have the ability to dive as well.
Apart from the oil and gas industry, Sarawak will have new industries coming up, thanks to SCORE and these will require some of the same skill sets and probably some new ones, as well. For those with the necessary skills needed by these new industries, you will probably be able to reap the rewards of your training and experience.
3. A foundation for entrepreneurship
Undertaking technical and vocational courses also opens up another career pathway – entrepreneurship. Students in TVET will get to learn the entire manufacturing process until the final product. The knowledge acquired about materials and the ability to estimate manufacturing costs will be an added advantage, if you’re looking to start your own business.
Most public and private institutions are beginning to recognise TVET qualifications, and some are even willing to offer help and guidance to those venturing out to start their own business.
4. Wide selection of courses
To date, Sarawak has 54 public and 35 private institutions that offer TVET courses, with about 30,000 students enrolled. It is a clear indication that there is a great importance placed on human capital development in this line of work.
TVET courses are unique because they can be designed to cater to the specific needs of the individual. Such courses offer you an option to study part time or full time, to acquire a certificate or diploma and also allows you to pick from a broad range of subjects such as, welding, carpentry, culinary arts, wiring, design, landscaping, among others.
Students will also get hands-on experience while studying, which is also a unique feature of such courses, compared to conventional diploma or degree programmes.
This is a weekly column by SarawakYES! – an initiative driven by Faradale Media-M Sdn Bhd and supported by Angkatan Zaman Mansang (AZAM) Sarawak – to provide advice and stories on the topics of education and careers to support Sarawakians seeking to achieve their dreams. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
This article first appeared on the Borneo Post, visit this link: http://bit.ly/1UmrRc5
