BUTTERWORTH: The employability rate among graduates of community colleges and polytechnics in the technical education and vocational training (TVET) field has remained high at 98% annually.

Deputy higher education minister Mansor Othman said those passing out have become the choice of employers and industries.

They also have the opportunity to further their studies to a higher level and be accepted into universities, he added.

“We are proud of the employability skills among community college and polytechnic graduates.

“These institutions have been adjusting their course programmes to address the skills and demands of the industries, thus preventing unemployment problems.

“The ministry has been reviewing the programmes from time to time so students can be ready to enter the job market.

“TVET is an added value for students as their certificates and diplomas are recognised by professional bodies and agencies,” he told reporters after the Tasek Gelugor Community College’s 2020 convocation ceremony here today.

Mansor advised those who have been retrenched and housewives to follow the Lifelong Learning (PSH) courses conducted by community colleges nationwide to boost their income.

He said that under the PSH programme, various technical courses related to installation of air conditioners, electrical wiring and culinary art were being offered to the public, regardless of their age.

“Based on the information available, we found that many have been following PSH and this helped them to generate more income.

“Some have even succeeded in becoming entrepreneurs and are employing others,” he said.