The important role of biotechnology in today’s world
PETALING JAYA: A biotechnology degree allows students access to any biology-related industry available in the market, says AIMST University Faculty of Applied Sciences dean Prof Manickam Ravichandran.
He said biotechnology played a large role in developing new treatment methodologies and predicting diseases to improve lives and the health of the planet.
“Biotechnology is technology based on biology, which is one of the fundamentals of pharmacology – where new medicines are discovered through biotechnology.
“It is essential for predicting and curing new diseases that could plague mankind,” he said, adding that stem cell and gene therapy are going to be the important methods of treatment, particularly in the field of medicine in the near future.
Prof Manickam will speak on “Career Pathways in Biotechnology” from 5.30pm to 6pm this Saturday at the Education and Career Talks segment at the Star Education Fair 2018.
During his session, the biotechnology veteran will touch on the importance of biotechnology and the wide career pathways available.
Prof Manickam said almost 100% biotechnology graduates secure jobs upon graduation.
Career pathways in biotechnology are focused in three sectors – medical, pharmaceutical, and agriculture.
“Biotech graduates in the medical field can work in hospitals, or as a science officer, medical science researcher, and more.
“In pharmaceuticals, they can play a role in developing new drugs, or choose to venture into agriculture biotechnology,” said Prof Manickam.
Biotechnology graduates can also enter areas related to biology-based industries such as food technology, he added.
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences lecturer Jagjit Kaur will speak about “Job Prospects For Well Educated Nurses” this Saturday from 4.45pm to 5.15pm.
The certified nurse-midwife, who has 25 years of experience under her belt, will touch on job prospects and pathways to obtain academic achievements and promotions in the nursing field, explain about the differences between a diploma or a degree in nursing, and debunk myths and misconceptions about the nursing industry.
Jagjit said those who take up a bachelor’s degree in nursing would find a bright future with multiple career pathways to choose from.
“A degree in nursing can propel someone further than just taking care of people.
“A nursing graduate can venture into academics, management, research, and insurance, or they can choose to specialise in clinical areas – just like how doctors choose their specialisation,” she said.
Other talks on various subjects such as Computer Science, Performing Arts and Disruptive Technology will be held at the fair on both days.
Qualified counsellors and academic staff from local and international higher learning institutions will be present to brief students and parents on a wide range of programmes.
Attractive discounts and scholarships will also be offered on the spot.
The Star Education Fair will be held at Exhibition Halls 4 and 5 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from 11am to 7pm this weekend. Admission is free.
For information, call 03-7967 1388 (ext 1097/1541) from Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 5.30pm, e-mail edufair@thestar.com.my or visit thestar.com.my/edufair and facebook.com/stareducationfair.