SCIENCE and technology centre Tech Dome Penang (TDP) has inked a partnership with Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) to improve the skills and talents, especially of the youth, in the state.
The brief signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two parties was held at TDP in Komtar today.
TDP was represented by its chief executive officer Khoo Boo Wooi and UPSI was represented by its vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Md Amin Md Taff at the ceremony.
It was also witnessed by Bagan Dalam assemblyman Satees Muniandy, who is also a board member of TDP.
According to Khoo, the MoU focuses on a few key areas of cooperation.
“First is to strengthen the human resources capacity and provide STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) expertise for the science and technology programmes.
“Our collaboration also aims to develop and improve the programme contents and prepare the future generation in adapting to the fast-changing environment,” he said.
Khoo added that it is vital that Penang keeps up the pace and improves STEM education.
“When people hear of Penang, the first thing that comes to mind is that Penang is a tourism state where tourists will often come to enjoy our beautiful beaches, tasty food and diverse history.
“While this is most certainly true, Penang is also home to many factories and manufacturing plantations. It has even been named the Silicon Valley of the East.
“This makes it important for Penang to lift its STEM education level to maintain its position as a technological powerhouse within Malaysia.
“Tech Dome Penang serves this purpose by continuously inspiring and encouraging the younger generation to take an interest in the fields of science and technology.
“The signing of this MoU also marks the beginning of more meaningful engagement and impactful collaboration that will bring our STEM programmes to a distinct and significant future,” Khoo said.
Dr Md Amin said such collaboration between TDP and UPSI through the MoU today would open a new chapter in the field of STEM and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) education as well.
“Through this MoU, both parties have the strength that can be blended to build and develop knowledge capacity for students and the younger generation in Penang.
“I was also informed that the collaboration will concentrate on the exchange of knowledge and expertise, the implementation of professional training programmes and high-impact programme between both parties.
“I really hope this collaboration will make a huge impact on the state and the country, further growing the interest of the young generation towards innovation and technology.
“I also believe this strategic collaboration, coupled with the tremendous support from the state government, will be able to build a bigger pool of skilful generation for the nation,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siew Chia En