IPOH, Dec 4 — Work-based learning provides opportunities for graduates to strengthen their soft skills, hence gives them the competitive advantage to achieve their career goals, said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
He said this was proven by the marketability statistics for graduates of Ungku Omar Polytechnic (PUO) since the past three years, at 93.6 per cent in 2018, 93.5 per cent in 2019 and 90.1 per cent last year.
“The data for 2020, however, surpasses the initial projection of the Higher Education Ministry, which is 75 per cent, due to the situation in the country at that time when it was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This shows good acceptance among employers and related industries,” he said when opening the 49th convocation ceremony for PUO and the first convocation for the Bagan Datuk Polytechnic, which was broadcast live on PUO’s official Facebook page here today.
A total of 112 graduates will receive their degree scrolls, diploma (4,337) and certificate (24) during the two-day convocation.
Saarani, in congratulating the graduates, said the convocation marked an important starting point in their life.
“For those for opportunities to advance themselves with their career life, always look for opportunities to advance yourselves, improve your academic and professional qualifications.
“To those who want to continue their studies, I also wish them success. With higher and better academic qualifications , you acquire better skills and able to compete in the job market. For those who want to ventuire into entrepreneurship, continue with the effort,” he said.
Source: BERNAMA News Agency