KUANTAN, Jan 15 (Bernama) -- The Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Polytechnic (POLISAS) plans to expand its programmes from the diploma to the Bachelor's degree level, in line with the country's needs for highly skilled manpower in the field of technology.
Ministry of Higher Education Department of Polytechnic Education and Community Colleges director-general Dr Shamsuri Abdullah said the proposal would involve existing programmes, such as Food Technology and Nutritional Biology, in accordance with current needs.
"So far, this proposal is at an early stage, and specific planning will be carried out after closer studies are carried out,” he told reporters after officiating at the launch of the POLISAS Golden Jubilee Anniversary celebration at Dewan Sri Mahkota POLISAS here today.
He said that the polytechnic also owns the Centre of Food Science and Technology (CIFOS), which functions as a centre of excellence for education, research and industrial collaboration in food technology.
"So far, POLISAS has produced over 60,000 graduates who currently serve in various sectors, including business, civil service and industries, thus aligning with the polytechnic's original role as a supplier of professional workforce in the technical, business and technological fields,” he said, adding that the country currently has 36 polytechnics and 106 community colleges.
Speaking of the polytechnic's 50th year celebration, POLISAS director Hisamudin Mohd Tamim said various programmes and activities have been planned for the whole of this year, including academic and sports programmes.
"These programmes not only involve those in POLISAS, but also the community and stakeholders. The official announcement will only be made once all approvals have been obtained, with the target being early August,” he said.
At the event, POLISAS received zakat wakalah totalling over RM210,000 from the POLISAS Zakat Collection Centre and Alumni Association.
-- BERNAMA
