AdminSikh school-leavers are being encouraged to consider Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a pathway to further education and employment, with EKTA Club Kuala Lumpur & Selangor offering five scholarships worth RM5,000 each to deserving students.
The EKTA TVET Scholarship is intended to provide financial assistance to Sikh students pursuing vocational education while promoting greater awareness of TVET as a viable career option.
The initiative also seeks to challenge the perception that vocational education is a second-choice pathway, particularly among students and parents making decisions after Form Three or the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM).
Scholarships aim to widen vocational education choices
Datuk Dr Saran Kaur Gill, Chair of EKTA Youth Development & Life-Long Learning, said TVET could be particularly suitable for students who preferred practical and hands-on learning.
“Every young person has different strengths and aspirations. For those who enjoy learning by doing, TVET provides the opportunity to develop practical in-demand skills for the workplace.
“It can lead to a career, further studies or even entrepreneurship. TVET is a smart and respected pathway to a successful future,” she said.
The push for greater consideration of TVET comes as Malaysia’s economy continues to require skilled workers across sectors including semiconductors, renewable energy, electric vehicles, logistics, hospitality, construction and advanced manufacturing.
TVET programmes provide students with practical and industry-relevant skills that can prepare them for technical occupations, while also providing opportunities for further studies and career advancement.
One example is Driishnil Singh, who developed an interest in automobiles from a young age and chose Automotive Engineering at Setapak Vocational College after Form Three.
He subsequently obtained his Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) and is now pursuing a Diploma Vokasional Malaysia.
Skills training linked to growing industries
The scholarship is open to Sikh students entering or pursuing Sijil Vokasional Malaysia, SKM or Diploma Kemahiran Malaysia programmes at public vocational colleges.
Selection will consider financial need, academic effort and commitment, interest in TVET, leadership, community service and a personal statement.
The RM5,000 scholarship will cover tuition fees for the duration of the course, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
EKTA will also assist eligible students with applications to public vocational colleges. Scholarship recipients will receive mentoring, counselling, leadership development and opportunities to participate in community activities throughout their studies.
EKTA Founding President Datin Kuldip Kaur said the five scholarships represented an investment in Sikh youth.
“The scholarships provide deserving Sikh students with the financial support, encouragement and guidance they need to pursue vocational education and build successful futures,” she said.
She added that greater awareness of vocational education could help students make education choices based on their interests, abilities and preferred ways of learning.
Applications are open to students enrolled in vocational colleges, with no closing date specified. Enquiries can be directed to [email protected].
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