Encouraging higher learn
UNIVERSITIES around the world are constantly looking at offering a wide range of courses to attract new students, especially individuals who have already entered the workforce.
Besides running niche programmes within specific fields and knowledge areas, universities are introducing massive open online courses and online resources for the masses.
These trends are testament to large segments of the working population that are interested in pursuing further study. Be it for better career opportunities or purely for personal enrichment and development, many people are interested to upskill and gain deeper knowledge irrespective of industry.
It has been estimated that the global e- learning business that generated US$ 110bil ( RM450bil) last year is expected to hit US$ 250bil ( RM1.02trillion) by 2020, increasing the likelihood for every person to be exposed to some form of online learning.
As Malaysia has a large workforce without prior tertiary education, the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning ( APEL) was introduced in 2011 by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency ( MQA) to allow Malaysians who lack formal academic qualifications an alternative route into universities.
This flexible evaluation programme recognises knowledge obtained through work experience, short courses, independent study, hobbies and leisure activities and other informal learning sources.
Under the purview of the Higher Education Ministry, the basic admission criteria for the different levels of tertiary education are listed below.
Certificate
Above 19 years old Relevant work experience
Diploma
Above 20 years old in the year of application
Relevant work experience
Bachelor’s degree
Above 21 years old in the year of application
Relevant work experience
Master’s degree
Above 30 years old in the year of application
Possess at least STPM/ diploma/ foundation studies or equivalent qualifications
Relevant work experience
Doctorate
Above 35 years old in the year of application
Possess at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent
Have five years of relevant work experience
All applicants are subjected to APEL assessments conducted by the MQA before being allowed to enrol in institutions.
Unfortunately, working adults who are interested in pursuing further study are bound to face multiple challenges such as family responsibilities and a shortage of time and finance, therefore shunting the idea of going back to university.
It is crucial then for working adults to be provided with the means to complete their education.
Employers should always look to helping their staff obtain additional learning as they will eventually reap the benefits of having a better- skilled workforce.
Some ways an employer can help its staff are:
The hefty tuition fees are often beyond the reach of many employees and those who decide to further their studies are sometimes ineligible for the financial aids available.
The strict regulations and the lack of flexibility of some of these options can prove difficult to achieve for most people. These include PTPTN loans that generally do not cover the total cost of the programme and Employees Provident Fund withdrawals that are only applicable for certain members.
Furthermore, opting to cover or pay part of the education costs will entitle the company for tax incentives and deductions.
To ensure employees continue to work at a company upon graduation, the terms and conditions for sponsorship can include an agreed duration of service with the company.
– Having days off in addition to annual leave will give employees adequate time to complete the various course assignments, attend seminars or study trips and prepare for examinations.
Sponsorships – Study leave
By having a resource of highly trained professionals with new knowledge and expertise, employers will have a group of inspired individuals who are eager to apply what they have learnt to their work, consequently implementing improved processes that will ultimately lead to more cost- and labour- efficient outcomes and exciting business opportunities such as expansions and acquisitions.