By Amanda L
KUCHING, Mar 10: UCSI University and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) have formed a collaboration to advance the implementation of the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning for Access (APEL.A), aimed at enabling working adults to convert their industry experience into academic entry pathways for higher education in Sarawak.
Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said the partnership reflects a forward-thinking model of cooperation between public and private universities to strengthen access to higher education while supporting Sarawak’s long-term talent development.
“The partnership between UCSI University and Unimas in advancing APEL.A reflects a forward-thinking model of inter institutional collaboration.
“The collaboration sends a strong signal that institutions in Sarawak are prepared to work together to serve industry and the community, while strengthening credibility and quality assurance within the APEL framework,” he said when officiating the launch of the Centre for Pre U and Continuing Education (CPUCE) and the APEL pathways at a hotel here today.
Explaining the significance of the initiative, he said APEL enables individuals with significant work experience but without formal academic qualifications to gain recognition of their skills and knowledge, allowing them to pursue higher education.
He added that the pathway is particularly important as Sarawak advances towards a more innovation driven and high-income economy that requires a skilled and adaptable workforce.
“In many industries, we have experienced workers who possess strong competencies but lack formal qualifications. APEL bridges that gap,” he said.
Sagah further noted that when public and private universities align their efforts, the higher education ecosystem becomes more cohesive and responsive while also optimising resources and avoiding duplication.
In this regard, he said initiatives such as the newly launched CPUCE would further strengthen professional and continuing education by ensuring programmes remain relevant and aligned with industry needs.
At the same time, the minister emphasised that accessible and flexible education pathways are essential to support lifelong learning, career mobility and workforce competitiveness as Sarawak expands sectors such as digital technology, the green economy and advanced industries. — DayakDaily
