WOU is offering 12 full scholarships worth up to RM700,000 to develop a highly skilled workforce in Penang, in partnership with the state government and the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC).
WOU Chief Executive and Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Lily Chan made the announcement during a special event held at the main campus on 28 August 2023.
As part of its strategic engagement with PWDC, WOU will fully sponsor tuition fees for three eligible women currently residing in Penang to undertake any WOU undergraduate or master’s degree programme of their choice.
Additionally, the University will award full scholarships for nine students born and currently residing in Penang – six are for students pursuing bachelor’s degree programmes under the School of Digital Technology (DiGiT) and three for those enrolling in other WOU programmes.
She thanked the State Government and PWDC for their support in nurturing a future-ready generation. “I welcome our strategic collaboration to further empower women and deserving individuals, and in so doing, increase their active participation in the workplace and in the development of the state and nation,” Prof Chan said, adding, “Together, we are committed to capacity building, particularly empowering women and fostering talent development in vital sectors.”
She noted the growing demand for skilled talents in Penang with the increasing influx of FDI into Penang. “We can bridge the gap by equipping individuals with the right skills and knowledge, so that our graduates can help innovate and drive the socio-economic growth in the state,” she said.
She underscored WOU’s commitment to upskill TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) talents. This aligns with the Penang2030 master plan’s initiatives to invest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and TVET education so as to future-proof the local manufacturing industries for the digital economy.
“WOU applies digital knowledge and technological skills to upskill, reskill and empower those working in Penang to stay ahead in the fast-evolving technological race,” she elaborated.
Meanwhile State Executive Councillor for Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs, YB Lim Siew Khim, said WOU is playing a vital role in enhancing the welfare and contributing to the overall social development of the Penang community.
“Keep up your good work, WOU, as you are a valuable partner that helps us better serve the people of Penang,” she remarked.
She shared her aspiration to “work with esteemed higher learning institutions such as WOU on a multitude of educational initiatives to boost the skills of the workforce, elevate their socio-economic status, and contribute to the community”.
Penang Chief Minister, YAB Chow Kon Yeow, in lauding the collaboration, said, “This partnership between WOU, the state government and PWDC highlights our collective commitment to providing equal educational opportunities and fostering the growth of our state’s human capital.”
He said that in the era of technology-driven transformation, graduates must not only obtain degrees but also gain profound skills that align with industrial requirements. “The paradigm shift necessitates continuous upskilling and reskilling, which means micro-credentials and short professional courses play a pivotal role,” he stressed.
“Education is more than just acquiring knowledge, it is about transforming lives, creating opportunities and shaping a brighter future for our state,” he highlighted.
He urged individuals to seize the opportunity to embark on a journey of growth and contribute to the advancement of the state, in line with the Penang2030 vision.