The Higher Education Ministry (MOHE) is considering opening a special pathway to polytechnics and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs for religious stream students, huffaz, and Maahad Tahfiz leavers. According to Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, the proposal would increase opportunities and pathways for students in those fields to pursue TVET studies at all MOHE polytechnics.
"Currently, the Techno Huffaz Programme is limited to four specific programs at the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Polytechnic and Sultan Azlan Shah Polytechnic," he said as he closed the debate on the 12th Malaysia Plan Mid-Term Review for his ministry at the Dewan Rakyat. According to Mohamed Khaled, the proposal is in line with the National Tahfiz Education Policy and Malaysia Madani's principles and aspirations, which elevate the values of excellence in individuals to be combined with their best skills. He also stated that the ministry is in the process of developing a polytechnic transformation plan, which is expected to be released by the end of this year.
Furthermore, Mohamed Khaled stated that the number of students admitted to TVET programs at polytechnics increased by more than 20% this year, from 16,962 to 20,520. He stated that 79.6 percent of available seats have been filled, with current enrollment standing at 144,816 students. "Although the number of admissions to TVET programs is satisfactory, we will continue our efforts to maximize admissions in order to meet the existing capacity and available places." "This includes easing admission requirements and providing special entry pathways for vulnerable groups".
