THE Wawasan Open University (WOU) has reached a milestone today by collaborating with three industry players to strengthen Penang’s semiconductor and manufacturing talent pipeline.
To upskill the workforce development in the country’s semiconductor and manufacturing sector, WOU has signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with TTVision Technologies Sdn Bhd, Oppstar Technology Sdn Bhd, and Clarion (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.
In her address to those present, WOU chief executive and vice-chancellor Prof Dr Lily Chan emphasised the importance of these partnerships in meeting the growing demand for skilled professionals in the state.
“This collaboration demonstrates how the universities and industry players can work together to address workforce needs.
“We are preparing the professionals to thrive in the high-tech sectors such as semiconductors, automation, and automotive electronics, in line with regional talent development programmes from the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER), and the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp),” she said.
At WOU, Chan said the university is collaborating with various industry players to curate upskilling and training programmes tailored to industry demands.
“We are fostering a new generation of employees who are ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global landscape.
“We are pleased with this initiative, demonstrating the shared commitment to fostering a skilled workforce,” she said, thanking TTVision, OppStar, and Clarion for the successful partnerships.
She also expressed her gratitude to InvestPenang’s crucial role, positioning Penang as a hub of talent and innovation.
InvestPenang chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian, who was the guest of honour, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative.
“This partnership strengthens the state’s position as a hub for advanced technology and skilled talent, contributing to the state’s growth as a destination for foreign investment.
Loo also underscored the importance of building a strong pool of engineers in the state.
“We aim to have 60,000 high-skilled engineers by 2030,” she said.
Among those present were WOU Board of Governors chairman Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, and representatives from the industry players.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En