Take up vocational studies as an option, Lee says

MIRI: Voc at iona l s cho ol graduates should be given equal job opportunities as they are certified skilled workers who contribute to our country’s development.

Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Lee Kim Shin who officiated at Riam Road Secondary School ( RRSS) and Riam Institute of Technology ( RIT) new building yesterday, said the younger generation who may not excel academically should be encouraged to enrol with vocational schools to learn certain skills instead of giving up education.

“Many parents typically think that excelling in academic studies is the only way to a brighter future in typical professions like doctor, lawyer and accountant.

“In fact, the new job opportunity is skilled workers who are needed in many different industries. With the passion and the willingness to work hard, any job provides a lifetime opportunity,” said Lee

He said RRSS and RIT had come a long way from humble beginnings to more than 1,200 students in RRSS and over 1,000 students in RIT.

“The institutions focus on both academic and skills learning and upon graduation, students would be industry ready,” he said.

The seven- storey bui lding which cost RM15 mi l lion is under construction and wil l accommodate local and foreign students when it’s ready early next year.

Lee proceeded to the construction site to hang a red banner on the new building’s beam to symbolise the smooth progress of the project.

Also present were chairman of RRSS school board of directors, Datuk Seri Law Kiu Kiong, RRSS boardofdirectors’deputy chairman Dato Sri Lau Hieng Su, permanent honorary president for RRSS board of directors, Tan Sri Datuk Ling Chiong Ho, philanthropist Datuk David Goh, CEO Dato’ Dr Fong Onn Min as well as other distinguished guests