TVET Needs Immediate Rebranding – TVET Takes Centre Stage at Limkokwing University as Malaysia Hosts Commonwealth Summit on International Student’s Day

The 2024 Commonwealth Student Governance Summit (CSGS) saw youth leaders and educators advocating for the enhancement of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). They emphasized the need to elevate TVET’s image, as it is often viewed as less prestigious compared to conventional academic routes, in order to make it more attractive to students and their parents.

The event highlighted Malaysia’s role as a focal point for discussions on how TVET can prepare students with practical, job-ready skills for an evolving job market. A significant session, ‘Championing the TVET Agenda’, was held on Day 2 and moderated by Benjamin Fraser, Chairperson of the Commonwealth Students Association, focusing on this crucial topic.

Datuk Tiffanee Marie, Group Chief Brand Officer of Limkokwing University highlighted the importance of revamping TVET’s image and ensuring it is seen as a viable, valuable option for young people.

“TVET is a cornerstone for preparing youth for the job market, but we still face challenges in overcoming outdated perceptions,” she said.

Natasha Zulkifli, Director of YTL Construction and Chair of Women in Rail Malaysia, emphasised the need for greater efforts to support TVET in Malaysia.

“By working in a space that requires technical expertise, I know how crucial TVET is, but I don’t think Malaysia is doing enough. There is a stigma associated with TVET; it’s commonly linked to second-class work and isn’t prioritised by the Malaysian government. There needs to be a dedicated government entity to coordinate efforts across ministries and improve public perception.”

She added that creating a robust TVET curriculum requires not just dedication but also collaboration with the business sector to address industry needs for the next 20 years. “The government’s 12th Malaysia Plan has a long-term development strategy, but it must incorporate vocational requirements to ensure its effectiveness,” Natasha said.

TVET: The pathway to ending poverty

Tiffanee emphasized that TVET is, quite plainly, a pathway out of poverty.

Education as a whole is the only lasting solution to breaking the cycle of poverty, which is why this discussion is so essential. We need to prioritize closing gaps and tackling wealth inequality.

“Within the 56 countries of the Commonwealth, we see an incredible range—from the richest of the rich to countries still in their infancy, struggling to establish themselves. My late father used to say, ‘There is no common wealth in the Commonwealth,’ and that remains true. Wealth disparity within this group of nations is staggering, and the Commonwealth should be much more aggressive in addressing it. If we are truly united, we must share resources and opportunities more fairly. Education is key to tackling poverty, inequality, and other social issues—it empowers individuals, restores dignity, and offers lasting value that cannot be taken away.”

When a student asked how TVET can be made “cool,” Tiffanee emphasised the importance of having key stakeholders from the skills industry to help make it appealing. She pointed to panelist Natasha Zulkifli, who works in the construction and rail industry, as an example of the kind of role models TVET needs. “We need more faces like Natasha to come out and help spread awareness about the future of TVET,” Tiffanee said.

AI won’t replace us, but can TVET bridge the divide?

Kishva Ambigapathy, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Youth Innovation Hub, emphasized how education has transformed in the post-Covid era.

“The pandemic reshaped education. Degrees and experience used to dominate job interviews, but now technology empowers everyone through their devices. I can become a designer, content creator, or critic from my phone. Education must catch up with these changes.”

He emphasised that TVET is critical in this shift. “Today, skills matter more than degrees. Employers want value, not just a piece of paper. TVET is no longer second-class but a pathway to practical, industry-relevant skills.”

Kishva pointed out that skills learned in a matter of days can sometimes match the value of years of formal education. “AI won’t replace us; it can only support us. TVET is essential for success in a technology-driven world.” He also discussed the global differences in how skilled professions are perceived and valued.

“TVET may not seem exciting in some countries because of how we view jobs like electricians or mechanics—as ‘dirty work.’ But in places like Australia, these roles are treated with the same respect and prestige as engineers. The real issue is the pay and the way we perceive these careers. We need to reframe how we define and value skilled work.”

By dedicating itself to student empowerment and nurturing leadership, Limkokwing brought pride to the nation by creating a platform where future global leaders could come together to develop solutions for some of the most urgent challenges of our time.

Tiffanie expressed, “It was a privilege to host this summit in recognition of International Students Day.”

“This day is a reminder of the immense contributions students make to society. At Limkokwing, we believe in providing students with the tools they need to lead and create meaningful change in their communities, both locally and globally.”

In line with its dedication to nurturing future leaders, Limkokwing University is set to launch the Limkokwing Creative TVET (CVET) program in collaboration with the Commonwealth Student Governance Summit.

All the information and images are provided by Limkokwing University.

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