SIBU, Feb 4: Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) and University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop and offer training programmes in technical and entrepreneurial skills for underserved communities in Sibu and its surrounding areas.
Minister of Human Resources Steven Sim Chee Keong was present to witness the MoU signing between HRD Corp chief executive Datuk Wira Shahul Dawood and UTS vice chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Khairuddin Abdul Hamid in a ceremony held here yesterday (Feb 3).
Also present were Sarawak Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government (MPHLG) Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee; Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker-cum-Lanang MP Alice Lau Kong Yieng; and Sibu MP Oscar Ling Chai Yew.
According to a press release, HRD Corp and UTS will be offering skill development programmes in practical wiring and installation; smart home technology covering areas such as Internet of Things (IoT) and smart home solutions, integration of smart home devices; and entrepreneurship covering basic business planning and strategy, financial literacy and budgeting as well as marketing and branding essentials.
The training programmes will be offered to low-income communities, educationally disadvantaged individuals and persons with disabilities in Sibu and the wider areas.
This will equip them with the electrical and electronics skills and knowledge that are needed in the industry, in line with the Sarawak government’s aspirations under the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE).
Speaking at the event, Sim said the collaboration will not only equip the people of Sibu and the wider region with industry-relevant skills, but also help create a steady supply of technical experts who can work within various energy subsectors and capacities, particularly within smart and energy-efficient homes.
“At the Ministry of Human Resources, we are fully committed to supporting the State’s needs for skilled workers in these areas. To that end, we will also look at expanding the collaboration to include AI skills and courses related to innovative renewable and energy-efficient solutions in the future,” he said.
The first introductory classes are set to take place between Feb 17 to March 2, 2024.
Individuals and groups have been identified and selected by UTS and HRD Corp by working with grassroots community organisations, employer associations, as well as heads of communities and industries. — DayakDaily
