The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is taking steps to address the need for an increase in teaching staff under the Department of Polytechnic Education and Community Colleges (JPPKK) nationwide. Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir has highlighted the importance of adding more teaching staff to overcome the current shortage, especially with the introduction of new fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) in these institutions.
According to Minister Zambry, the Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint will take into consideration the need for additional teaching staff to cater to the new subjects being introduced. With over 10,000 polytechnic and community college teaching staff currently in place, the ministry recognizes the necessity of recruiting more educators to meet the demands of evolving educational requirements.
„We cannot transfer old teaching staff to teach new subjects. Therefore, there is a need for additional staff to ensure that the quality of education remains high,“ Minister Zambry explained during a press conference after attending the Karisma: Pemikir MADANI Series 2 National Young Leadership Programme.
In line with the goal of enhancing the quality of education in polytechnics and community colleges, Minister Zambry emphasized the importance of recruiting teaching staff with Master’s degrees or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) qualifications. By bringing in educators with advanced degrees, the institutions can keep pace with the latest advancements in the education field and provide students with a high-quality learning experience.
„I want to see polytechnics and community colleges staffed by individuals with higher qualifications to elevate the dignity of this sector and ensure a quality educational experience for students,“ Minister Zambry stated.
As the Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint 2026-2035 is currently being drafted to outline the direction of the country’s higher education for the next decade, Minister Zambry encouraged all stakeholders to contribute their views and opinions to improve the blueprint. Input from notable figures, educators, local experts, and stakeholders in the field of education will be crucial in shaping the future of higher education in Malaysia.
Today’s programme, aimed at fostering leadership skills among young academics through dialogue and sharing sessions, is part of the ministry’s efforts to strengthen leadership competencies among young people in the higher education sector. By empowering young lecturers and educators, the ministry hopes to build a strong foundation for future leaders in the field of education.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Higher Education’s initiative to increase the number of teaching staff in polytechnics and community colleges reflects its commitment to enhancing the quality of education and keeping pace with advancements in the field. By recruiting educators with higher qualifications and seeking input from various stakeholders, the ministry is working towards creating a comprehensive blueprint that will shape the future of higher education in Malaysia.