Are you pretty sure of the career you want? Do you prefer to learn by doing? Are you keen on entering the workforce as soon as you can? TVET courses could be what you're looking for!
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) includes formal, non-formal and informal learning that prepare young people with the knowledge and skills required in the world of work.
How do I know if a TVET education is for me?
- You prefer to learn by doing. You respond to more hands-on learning rather than classroom learning.
- You already have a specific career (or at least a specific career field) in mind.
- You want to start work as soon as you can.
- You want to learn practical skills in a real world environment.
- You need a flexible option where you can work while you study.
TVET qualifications play a vital role in the country's economy by equipping the workforce with knowledge and skills from basic to advanced levels in various economic sectors. As a student, pursuing a TVET qualification enables you to acquire real skills that you will be able to build on with further training or take with you into a job. Here are some more reasons why TVET qualifications could be an option for you:
A job-ready option with hands-on experience
TVET qualifications equip you with specific skills that you need at the workplace. You will have hands-on practical experience that will prepare you for the challenges and opportunities you may face at work. This will also help build your confidence. You will be job-ready when you are qualified in the sector you have been trained in.
High demand by industry
The growing economy in the country and within the region requires workers who are skilled at various levels. Although you may start as a low-medium skilled worker, you can gradually build on your experience and with further training, become a highly-skilled worker in an industry that has high employability rates.
Become better at what you are good at
You may already know what area or field interests you and would rather avoid an academic pathway. Perhaps you'd like a career in auto repair or could hospitality be your dream job? By getting a TVET qualification, you can go right into the field you're interested in. Also, the qualification shows employers that you have been certified to do the job.
Affordable, flexible and shorter duration
Skills qualifications require a shorter time to complete compared to conventional academic pathways. Ranging from 3-24 months, the shorter duration means that students are more likely to complete the course. In addition, some of these courses allow students to work and study, making it an affordable and flexible option.
Financial aid
If you are looking for funding for skills qualifications, you can apply for a PTPK study loan provided by the Ministry of Human Resources or explore apprenticeship schemes that are offered from time to time. Do check with the various skills qualifications providers on what is available.
| Examples of TVET career fields | |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Graphic Arts |
| Animal Science | Health Occupations |
| Auto Body Repair | Horticulture and Landscape Design |
| Automotive Service Technology | Hospitality, Recreation and Tourism |
| Aviation & Aerospace | Journalism |
| Broadcast Media | Machining |
| Business | Manufacturing |
| Carpentry and Construction | Masonry |
| Child Care and Education | Painting and Repair |
| Computer Information | Performing Arts |
| Cosmetology | Photography & Film |
| Criminal and Legal | Plumbing |
| Culinary Arts | Printing |
| Electrical Occupations | Protection and Investigation |
| Electronics | Security and Risk Management |
| Energy and Power | Telecommunications |
| Engine Technology | Transportation |
| Engineering, Math and Science | Visual Arts |
| Entrepreneurship | Welding and Metal Arts |
| Food Science | |
| Examples of TVET occupations | |
|---|---|
| Appliance Repairer | Burglar/Fire Alarm Installer |
| Baker/Pastry Artist | Carpenter |
| Barber/Hair Stylist | Carpet Installer |
| Brick Mason | Cook/Chef |
| Cosmetologist | Dental Hygienist |
| Court Reporter | Drafter |
| Electrician | Plumber |
| Esthetician | Power Plant Operator |
| Fire Fighters | Printing Press Operator |
| Floor Layer | Real Estate Appraiser |
| Horticulture Specialist | Solar Energy Installer |
| Hospitality/Tourism Specialist | Sound Engineering Technician |
| Industrial Designer | Stone Mason |
| Interior Decorator | Surveyor |
| Inventory Analyst | Travel Agent |
| Landscape Designer | Tool/Die Maker |
| Locksmith | Tour Guide |
| Machinist | Veterinary Technician |
| Mechanic | Water Treatment Operator |
| Medical Assistant | Web Designer |
| Nail Technician | Welder |
| Paralegal | X-Ray Technician |
Source: Education Guide Malaysia (14th edition)
Related articles:
