Beyond free tuition: SDGA advocates for ‘jobs funnel’ to secure graduate futures in S’wak

KUCHING (Dec 23): The Sarawak Dayak Graduates Association (SDGA) has welcomed the state’s Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), describing it as a reflection of the government’s firm commitment to inclusive higher education and long-term human capital development.

However, the association asserts that the scheme’s long-term value depends on strong graduate employability outcomes.

“We view programmes such as the Graduate Employability and Training Scheme – Workplace Readiness Programme (GETS-WRP) as important building blocks, but not the sole solution,” the SDGA said.

“There is a need to progressively develop a broader, structured jobs funnel model to complement FTES and strengthen the transition from education to employment.”

Such a mode, the association explained, would align public education investment with workforce demand to create sustainable local employment opportunities.

It would go beyond an application-based training approach by creating an integrated pathway starting during a student’s academic journey and continuing through to job placement.

“This includes early talent identification, industry exposure, employer-aligned training, accredited industrial placements or apprenticeships, and coordinated matching between graduates and employers,” it added.

A critical component of this model is private sector participation.

“This enables companies to help shape talent according to real operational needs, reduce the duration and cost of on-the-job training and onboard graduates who are more professionally prepared,” said the SDGA.

“This will result in a more productive workforce and a stronger partnership between education institutions and industry.”

The association believes a well-structured jobs funnel supporting FTES will help Sarawak retain talent by providing clear local career pathways, reducing skills mismatch, and improving graduate readiness.

“In doing so, Sarawak can mitigate the risk of future brain drain and ensure that the benefits of free education are retained within the state’s economy,” it added.

Meanwhile, SDGA president Rizzo Mungka Rechie said the association’s focus is fully aligned with the state government’s aspirations for talent development.

“We don’t just build programmes, we build people. Sarawak has a strong foundation, and with the right systems in place, we can nurture graduates into capable professionals who are ready to serve Sarawak,” he said.