Premier approves Form Six college in Bau, advocates for vocational certificate inclusion

Abang Johari (third left) checking out the exhibition area on hydrogen technology by students at SK Suba Buan in Bau on Aug 17, 2024. Photo credit: Ukas

By Chris Bishop and Karen Bong

KUCHING, Aug 17: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has endorsed the establishment of a Form Six college in Bau, with plans to incorporate vocational certificate examinations alongside the Malaysian Higher School Certificate (STPM).

This initiative follows Deputy Transport Minister and Tasik Biru assemblyman Dato Henry Harry Jinep’s proposal to either establish a Form Six college or construct a new secondary school to accommodate the growing student population in the constituency.

Harry also advocated for the creation of a vocational or technical secondary school in Bau District to meet the rising demand for skilled workforce and to foster talent development, ultimately contributing to Sarawak’s prosperity.

“Dato Henry requested for a Form Six (college) in which I believed should take into account vocational education examination which is equivalent to Form Six,” he told reporters during a doorstep interview after officiating the new SK Suba Buan in Bau today.

The Premier’s support for this educational advancement stems from his observation of increasing student interest in scientific fields, including understanding of hydrogen technology.

“With a solid secondary education foundation, these students can pursue higher education in specialised fields such as aerospace, remote sensing, avionics, and satellite technology. This is why we’ve established an aerospace faculty (at i-CATS University College),” he added.

Earlier on, Harry highlighted ongoing efforts to relocate SK Serembu, a project funded by the RM1 billion dilapidated school initiative, which is expected to commence soon.

Under the 11th Malaysia Plan, the upgrading of SMK Lake is scheduled to begin in October, while the procurement of a new site for SK Buso is currently under approval as part of Budget 2024.

Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn was present at the event. — DayakDaily