Marginalised no more
OVER 12,000 women, youth and those from vulnerable communities have been empowered to improve their lives through technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

These individuals were part of the Skills for Prosperity programme, which has been making headway in helping local communities make a living through TVET.

The programme is run by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and funded by the United Kingdom government from 2019 to 2023.

ILO deputy regional director for Asia and the Pacific Panudda Boonpala said the programme had helped make TVET and skills systems more equitable, more future-ready and more relevant for the industry.

This, she said, would result in a trickle-down effect, touching the lives of Malaysians nationwide.

“Through pilot initiatives in Sabah and Kedah, we’ve played a pivotal role in upskilling and reskilling workers, while also recognising skills acquired through informal channels.

“Graduates and workers in these states have become more resilient and employable,” she said when highlighting the programme’s success in increasing inclusive skills development.

Speaking at the culmination of the programme on Sept 29, she said the programme has bolstered the quality of TVET, with a specific emphasis on promoting the integration of generic skills related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) into the TVET system.

“This equips learners with the capabilities and knowledge for skills utilisation and continuous career progression in the changing world of work,” she said.

During the event, British High Commissioner to Malaysia Ailsa Terry (pic) said the programme had many pilot training programmes under it to enhance TVET inclusiveness, future-readiness, STEM skills and industry leadership, which can be scaled up with wider partners.

Among its key achievements, she said, were creating a gender equality and social inclusion guide for TVET in collaboration with ministries and industries, which includes a career progression map for women in the construction and food manufacturing industries.

“We have a commitment to women and girls and I’m really pleased that we have achieved that,” she said, adding that this includes social inclusion and equality.

“Without a really strong TVET ecosystem, I don’t think Malaysia will succeed in its ambitions,” she added.

The Skills for Prosperity programme is a flagship UK global education and skills programme working collaboratively with multiple partner countries, including a dedicated South-East Asia programme.

Having made headway into enhancing equity, quality and industry relevance of Malaysia’s TVET and skills systems, the programme has directly benefited more than 1,600 people and indirectly assisted over 11,000 individuals.

It has also contributed to the development of the digital talent development roadmap and National Skills Registry, which are critical to facilitate the digital transformation of Malaysia TVET system and support anticipation and matching of future skills needs.
TVET,women empowerment,ILO,British High Commission,underserved communities,education,gender
OVER 12,000 women, youth and those from vulnerable communities have been empowered to improve their lives through technical and vocational education and training (TVET).