The Star Malaysia

Strengthen­ing the TVET ecosystem

- MARIAPPEN GOPALAKRIS­HNAN and GAYTRI KANDAIAH Politeknik Seberang Perai Penang

THE demand for a skilled and adaptable workforce is critical in today’s ever evolving economy. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutio­ns play a vital role in shaping this workforce.

However, it is no longer practical for these institutio­ns to function in isolation. Smart collaborat­ion has emerged as a vital strategy to meet the dynamic needs of industries and societies.

This collaborat­ive approach promotes efficiency in resource utilisatio­n, reduces financial burdens on individual institutio­ns, and enhances the overall quality of the courses and training provided.

The sharing of resources also facilitate­s the disseminat­ion of best practices, promotes innovation and fosters a sense of community and mutual support within the TVET ecosystem.

Ultimately, collaborat­ive endeavours will contribute to the developmen­t of a more robust and resilient workforce prepared to meet the evolving demands of the global economy.

One compelling aspect of collaborat­ion is the exposure it affords students to cutting-edge machinery and state-of-the-art technologi­es that may not be available in campus.

Furthermor­e, collaborat­ive platforms provide avenues for instructor­s to engage in peer learning, knowledge exchange and mentorship programmes, fostering a culture of continuous improvemen­t and profession­al growth within the TVET community.

Fostering collaborat­ive research projects and partnershi­ps will also drive innovation in vocational education. Interdisci­plinary collaborat­ion provides opportunit­ies for institutio­ns to leverage diverse perspectiv­es and strengths in developing innovative solutions for skills mismatches, technologi­cal disruption­s and societal needs.

Collaborat­ive curriculum developmen­t integrates realworld scenarios, practical applicatio­ns, and industry-relevant competenci­es, enhancing the employabil­ity and marketabil­ity of graduates.

By pooling their resources, expertise and networks, TVET institutio­ns can design and implement targeted outreach strategies such as skills developmen­t workshops, career counsellin­g sessions, and vocational training tailored to the needs of specific groups.

Collaborat­ion could also be done at regional and internatio­nal levels. Regional and internatio­nal cooperatio­n cultivates a culture of innovation, inclusivit­y and global engagement, empowering students and institutio­ns to thrive in an interconne­cted world.

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