KUALA LUMPUR - Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) has become the first university in Malaysia to introduce a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)-based doctoral programme.
The initiative is expected to change perceptions that TVET only focuses on lower- and middle-level skills training.
UTeM Vice-Chancellor Massila Kamalrudin said the university recently received approval from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency to offer the Doctor of Professional Practice (DPP) programme.
She said the approval marks an important step in strengthening Malaysia’s higher education system while creating more opportunities for technologists and industry professionals to pursue doctoral studies based on workplace experience.
“Unlike the conventional Doctor of Philosophy program which focuses heavily on theoretical research, the DPP program emphasises solving industrial issues through the Professional Practice-Based Learning (PPBL) approach,” she said.
Massila said the programme allows students to carry out research directly at their workplaces to improve processes and develop practical solutions for industry problems.
She added that the programme was developed with input from industry partners to ensure the curriculum remains practical, relevant and aligned with current workforce demands.
“The implementation of this program also takes into account the nation’s need to produce a highly skilled workforce with TVET backgrounds, particularly in emerging technology sectors such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, smart energy systems, industrial digitalisation, automation and sustainable technology,” she said.
Massila said the programme provides an opportunity for TVET students and professionals to continue their education to doctoral level while strengthening the country’s technical and technology talent pool.
She added that education experts see the programme as a strategic effort to improve public perceptions of TVET education.
“The existence of a TVET-based doctoral pathway is expected to increase the appeal for professionals to continue upgrading their academic qualifications without having to leave their respective industries,” she added.
