Budget 2025: Expert says focus on micro-credential programmes for Gen Z's skill development

SHAH ALAM - There is a need for the government to support fresh graduates in participating in micro-credential programmes, a practice that has gained popularity in developed countries like the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK).

Universiti Sains dan Teknologi Malaysia economist Professor Emeritus Dr Barjoyai Bardai said it was important to encourage fresh graduates to take up these short courses as this would allow them to work while continuing their education.

He said prestigious universities abroad, such as Stanford and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have already adopted this model, where courses were divided into small modules that students could complete online.

"They can attend classes during their breaks or in the evenings and weekends. After completing assignments and assessments, students are awarded certificates," he said.

He said the certificates provided value in the job market, allowing graduates to advance their careers.

Barjoyai said he believed that this approach could be a game changer for the Generation Z (Gen Z), as it would enable them to work and study simultaneously without committing to full-time education.

Acknowledging the financial struggles faced by many students, particularly those involved in the gig economy, he proposed that the government use the Human Resources Development Corporation (HRD Corp) funds to support micro-credential programmes for workers.

"Gen Z workers can apply to these funds to pay for their micro-credential training conducted by universities," he said.

He said the Education Ministry should play a pivotal role in implementing such programmes and ensuring their success.

Barjoyai also voiced concerns about the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Policy.

He noted that TVET often required full-time study, limiting the ability to work and earn money at the same time.

He argued that micro-credential programmes offered a more flexible alternative, allowing graduates to gain new skills without sacrificing their jobs.

Meanwhile, Putra Business School economist Associate Professor Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff was of the view that TVET provided an alternative path for young people to gain practical skills that could improve their income.

He said the initiative has been implemented more comprehensively and effectively, enabling the government to address youth unemployment.

"TVET is seen as the alternative opportunity for the young to explore new fields of skills that can help them enhance their income," he added.

Budget 2025, the third under the unity government, will be tabled in Parliament on Oct 18.

The budget, themed "Ekonomi Madani, Negara Makmur, Rakyat Sejahtera" is the final budget under the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021-2025), paving the way for the upcoming 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) over the next five years.