I-CATS STRENGTHENS TIES WITH 19 INDUSTRIES, 22 TVET INSTITUTIONS IN SARAWAK

KUCHING, May 7 (Bernama) -- Sarawak’s i-CATS University College today exchanged Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Letters of Intent (LoIs) with 19 industries and 22 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, with the aim of strengthening strategic networks for workforce development in the state.

The exchange ceremony was witnessed by Sarawak Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapa’ee.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Annuar emphasised that both academics and industries play a crucial role in realising the state government’s policies.

“Without alignment between academic vision and government policies, as well as active support from the industry sector, all the well-intended policies will not be achieved within the expected timeframe,” he said.

“Therefore, today’s ceremony marks an important milestone in our efforts to ensure that Sarawak moves towards becoming a carbon-free, developed state and a region that fosters the development of green technology,” he said.

Meanwhile, i-CATS vice-chancellor Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi said the exchange of LoIs with 22 TVET institutions reflects the university college’s commitment to developing a robust linkage system that supports academic mobility and lifelong learning.

“Through this initiative, graduates from polytechnics, vocational colleges, community colleges, and technical colleges will have a direct pathway to further their studies in diploma and bachelor’s degree programmes at i-CATS.

“We will actively promote technology-based academic programmes, providing a clear academic pathway for students to continue their studies up to the master’s and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) levels.

Mohamad Kadim said this collaboration bridges the gap between technical training and higher education, offering a more accessible, affordable, and achievable future for students across Sarawak.

He added that i-CATS is also actively implementing various strategic initiatives with the goal of achieving full university status by 2026.

“Among the key steps being taken are the development of new faculties, such as the Faculty of Energy Transition, the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, and the establishment of the i-CATS Digital Business School,” he said.

-- BERNAMA