SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC PARTNERS INTI TO BRIDGE MALAYSIA'S TALENT GAP, PREPARE WORKFORCE FOR THE FUTURE

PETALING JAYA, July 3 (Bernama) -- Global industrial technology leader Schneider Electric has partnered with INTI International University & Colleges in a strategic move to address the growing demand for skilled talent in Malaysia and prepare the workforce of the future. 

This collaboration comes at a crucial time, as the Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (SAMENTA) reports a shortfall of 50,000 engineers in Penang alone, impeding the growth of the semiconductor industry and national economic expansion.

Country President for Malaysia of Schneider Electric, Eugene Quah, emphasised the need for a strategic and inclusive approach to bridging the talent gap.

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“Addressing the talent gap requires a strategic and inclusive approach that caters to both fresh talent and the existing workforce.

“Fostering partnerships between businesses and universities is critical, as these collaborations equip all generations with enhanced learning, upskilling, and continuous development opportunities,” he said during the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing event held between Schneider Electric and INTI International University & Colleges here recently. 

Reflecting United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) 4 and 8, which advocate for inclusive, quality education and sustained economic growth, this partnership aims to enhance employability for INTI students and support Schneider Electric employees' professional growth. 

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Schneider Electric’s Next Gen Programmes, including the Schneider Internship Programme, Schneider Graduate Programme, Schneider Global Student Experience, and Schneider Go Green competition, will provide students with practical, hands-on work experiences.

Quah highlighted the innovative potential of merging fresh student insights with the expertise of Schneider Electric's seasoned workforce.

“Through strategic alliances like the one we formed with INTI, we are able to drive the readiness of future workforces by bridging the academic and industry divide as well as providing students a platform to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings," Quah explained. 

Through the MoU, INTI will offer Schneider Electric employees access to its Programmes for Working Professionals at preferential rates, encouraging the current workforce to upskill and stay agile amidst evolving industry demands.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of INTI International University and Colleges Chong Kok Wai noted that upskilling is not just an investment in individual careers, but is also essential for elevating industry standards and sustaining business growth.

“Through university-business partnerships, we are equipping both our existing workforce and future talents with the necessary skills to thrive and help narrow the talent shortage gap,” he said.

Ching said initiatives like these serve as a blueprint to mitigate the skilled talent gap and by fostering a collaborative environment between academia and industry, a pipeline of well-prepared professionals ready to tackle tomorrow's challenges is created. 

“Such partnerships are vital for ensuring that the workforce evolves together, securing a competitive edge in the global market,” he added.

-- BERNAMA