KUCHING: Accessible and adaptable learning pathways are essential to equip more individuals to grow in step with workforce needs in the evolving economy.
Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said that Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) provides this path by allowing work experience to be recognised as academic achievement.
He added that APEL helps bridge the gap faced by experienced workers who possess high competencies but lack formal academic qualifications.
“It strengthens inclusivity in higher education and supports lifelong learning, both of which are critical to building a resilient workforce
“In many industries, we have experienced workers who possess strong competencies but lack formal qualifications and by formally recognising prior work experiential learning, we enable the working group to convert their experience into academic recognition.
“This creates mobility. It enhances confidence. And most importantly, it opens doors that might otherwise remain closed,” he said.
He said this in his keynote address when officiating at the launch of launch of the Centre for Pre-University & Continuing Education (CPUCE) at a hotel here today.
He said this approach is important because learning does not only happen in formal educational institutions, but also through experience in the workplace and the community.
“APEL challenges the old notion that academic qualifications and industry experience are two separate paths.
“Simultaneously, It recognises that learning does not only take place in lecture halls. It happens in workplaces, in communities, and through years of hands-on experience,” he said.
Sagah added that the initiative is highly relevant as Sarawak moves toward an innovation-driven, high-income economy.
He also said that the state’s workforce must remain agile, skilled, and constantly upgrade their capabilities to meet the demands of new sectors such as digital technology, the green economy, advanced industries, and the services sector.
“Our people must have more accessible educational opportunities and flexible pathways to progress ,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sagah praised the collaboration between UCSI University and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) in advancing APEL implementation as a forward-thinking model of inter-institutions collaboration.
He added that cooperation between public and private higher education institutions strengthens Sarawak’s higher education ecosystem and expands access to education.
“Rather than operating in silos, our higher education institutions are working together to expand access, share expertise, and strengthen implementation capacity.
“Universities must work closely with industry and the government to ensure programmes remain relevant, practical, and aligned with Sarawak’s economic development priorities.
“If implemented strategically, APEL can expand higher education access for the working group, support career growth, encourage upskilling and reskilling, and enhance workforce productivity and competitiveness,” he added.
