SARIKEI: The government’s ongoing efforts to empower youth participation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) continue to gain momentum, as hundreds of secondary school students took part in the “Juh Belajar, Juh Berjaya bersama TVET Madani @ Kolej Komuniti Zon Sarawak” programme held statewide on Thursday.

Organised by Sarawak Zone Community College under the Department of Polytechnic and Community Colleges Education (JPPKK), the initiative was conducted simultaneously at seven campuses across the state, including Sarikei, Kuching, Mas Gading, Santubong, Miri, Betong and Sibu.

At the Sarikei Community College (KKSR) and its KKSRCS Sibu branch alone, a total of 220 students and teachers attended physically, comprising 100 participants in Sarikei and 120 in Sibu.

The programme aims to expose secondary school students to practical learning experiences while highlighting the potential of TVET as a viable and future-proof career pathway.

At KKSR, participants engaged in career pathway exhibitions, culinary demonstrations and hands-on workshops on mobile application development conducted by information technology lecturers.

Meanwhile, in Sibu, students explored mini workshops ranging from Canva essentials and basic Microsoft Excel to high-rope recreation and first-aid fundamentals, offering real-world skills beyond the classroom.

For many, the experience reshaped outdated perceptions.

SMK Sarikei Baru student Suhardi Hadari said the programme broadened his understanding of TVET, which he now views as a leading route toward securing high-demand careers.

To further widen outreach, the event was streamed live via TikTok and Facebook through official Sarawak Zone Community College channels, offering virtual access and sparking interest among youth statewide. -UKASnews