By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, Sept 2 — Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin has urged the government to reassess wages, particularly that of graduates, in line with current needs, economy and inflation.
Her Royal Highness stressed the importance of solutions to prevent youth from falling behind, and ensure their livelihoods and welfare are secured.
“I am concerned about issues affecting graduates. The advancement of the higher education system has produced many quality graduates, but available jobs do not match their qualifications.
“The issue of salaries and job market demands has often been a point of concern. The imbalance between job supply and demand in certain fields must be examined.
“There is an oversupply of graduates, and in some cases, job opportunities exceed the expertise available. What are the solutions to ensure these affected graduates can contribute their services in other fields?” she said during Universiti Teknologi Mara’s (UiTM) 99th convocation here today.
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Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin delivers a speech at Universiti Teknologi Mara’s 99th convocation in Shah Alam on September 2, 2024. — Picture by NUR ADIBAH AHMAD IZAM/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
The UiTM pro-chancellor presented awards to 107 doctoral and clinical master’s degree recipients, as well as to 15 top graduates.
During the ceremony, which runs until October 17, 28,020 students across various fields will receive their awards and certificates across 27 sessions.
Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin said the Higher Education Ministry and higher learning institutions must work diligently to enhance the role of Bumiputera in industry and ensure graduates remain relevant in the job market.
“New fields of focus must be examined in line with industry requirements to help graduates advance their careers. Entrepreneurial knowledge and the use of digital technology must also be strengthened. This will provide graduates with the skills to adapt and move forward in any situation they face.
“Education institutions should consider offering skill training and short professional courses to better equip graduates for future challenges and enable them to contribute effectively in the global market,” she said.
Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin reminded higher learning institutions to provide opportunities for students to explore various fields, balancing academic excellence with leadership skills.
To foster innovative and creative talents, she said both the community and the industry must also support universities, ensuring a positive impact on the nation’s development.
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UiTM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Shahrin Sahib@Sahibuddin speaks at Universiti Teknologi Mara’s 99th convocation in Shah Alam on September 2, 2024. — Picture by NUR ADIBAH AHMAD IZAM/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
Meanwhile, UiTM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Shahrin Sahib@Sahibuddin expressed hope that the university’s 700,000-strong alumni will support students’ futures.
He reminded graduates to repay their National Higher Education Fund Corporation loans once they secure employment, as it will benefit new students.
“God willing, we will continue our spirit of perseverance and achieve success in every step we take. Become successful leaders in our community so we can continue to inspire, motivate and serve as role models,” he said in his speech.
