10 October -In a groundbreaking event, the Sabah TVET Symposium 2023 brought together key figures and institutions dedicated to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to chart a transformative path for Sabah's socioeconomic landscape. The symposium received commendable support from the Chief Minister, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI), the Institute for Development Studies (IDS) Sabah, the Department of Skills Development (JPK), and the North Borneo University College (NBUC).

Chief Minister YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Noor highlighted the pivotal role TVET plays in shaping the future of Sabah. He applauded the symposium organizers and emphasized that TVET serves as the foundation for a skilled workforce, bridging the gap between education and employment. By nurturing practical skills, TVET not only reduces unemployment rates but also contributes to economic growth across diverse sectors like tourism, agriculture, maritime, and technology. Furthermore, TVET offers an alternative pathway for individuals with unique talents and interests, fostering inclusivity and social equity.

NBUC President Prof Datuk Sr. Dr. Mohaizi Mohamad underscored the importance of TVET in unleashing Sabah's untapped potential. He stressed that TVET equips the youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in a rapidly evolving world. With Sabah's economy diversifying into agriculture, tourism, renewable energy, and technology, a skilled workforce is essential to seize growth opportunities. TVET programs, aligned with industry demands, can make Sabah graduates highly employable, attracting investment and bolstering economic development.

Prof. Dato’ Sr. Dr. Azimuddin Bahari, Vice Chancellor of NBUC and Organizing Committee Chairman, emphasized the need for comprehensive policy directions and frameworks to harness TVET's potential fully. The Sabah TVET Symposium 2023 served as a crucial platform, bringing together policymakers, professionals, academics, and industry players to lay the foundation for TVET development in Sabah. Keynote addresses and papers presented during the symposium focused on green TVET, innovation and technology, and TVET talent development. The aim is to align TVET programs with industry needs, ensuring graduates are job-ready and maintain high educational standards.

In conclusion, the Sabah TVET Symposium 2023 marks a significant milestone in Sabah's journey towards socioeconomic development. The collaborative efforts of KSTI, IDS Sabah, JPK, and NBUC aim to formulate policies, strategies, and action plans that will unlock the full potential of TVET, driving innovation, talent development, and economic prosperity for Sabah.