Forge partnership with Politeknik Kota Kinabalu to create highly-trained TVET students, industries told

KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor hoped more industry players in the state will forge a partnership with Politeknik Kota Kinabalu and assist in producing high quality graduates in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme.
He said that after all it would be for the industry’s own benefit as they would be able to seek workers from a highly-skilled human capital pool that cater to their needs.
“The State Government is committed to developing our human capital. The TVET programme is also in line with the development of human capital and people’s wellbeing, which is the second thrust of the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ).”
Speaking at the launching ceremony of Politeknik Kota Kinabalu Silver Jubilee celebrations held virtually today, Hajiji said the State Government fully supported initiatives taken by Politeknik Kota Kinabalu to ensure its continuous growth and competitiveness.
The Chief Minister noted that having 141 collaborations with private and government agencies in various fields was a good sign for Politeknik Kota Kinabalu.
“This means more organisations, especially from the private sector, are hiring polytechnic students. So, we hope Politeknik Kota Kinabalu will continue to produce more graduates who are highly-skilled and relevant to industry’s needs,” he said.
He was also glad to note that Politeknik Kota Kinabalu is offering 17 programmes at the certificate, pre-diploma and diploma levels.
Until December 2019, Politeknik Kota Kinabalu has produced 24,457 TVET graduates.
Incepted on March 1, 1996, Politeknik Kota Kinabalu he said has been an integral component in the state’s education system particularly in promoting TVET to the youths.
Many youths now realise the advantages of securing TVET qualification that is highly sought after in the job market.
“TVET is not a second class study for dropouts students, instead it is a study that offers students a skill-based career with a prospective lucrative income,” he said.
He congratulated Politeknik Kota Kinabalu for successfully nurturing many students who are highly innovative, excelling equally in sports, cultural and academic in the past 25 years.
“While Politeknik Kota Kinabalu may offer programmes that are a little bit different from public universities, they have their own strength. Their students can utilise the skills acquired for life and after entering the job world,” he said.