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A Viable Alternative to Traditional Higher Education |
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In 1999, the community college program was introduced as an alternative route
for secondary school leavers who were unable to secure a place at university. It
was designed to provide students with the opportunity to acquire a skill or
trade, gain employment or even undertake self-employment through
certificate-level courses or short non-credit courses.
However, the rebranding of community colleges has changed the concept of what
they can offer. Instead of solely catering to school leavers, community colleges
now provide a viable alternative education track for university entrants who are
unsuccessful in securing places at public and private institutions of higher
learning. This track does not follow the straightforward academic route from
secondary school to university, but rather offers a different career path.
One of the advantages of community colleges is that they are not a dead-end path
to education and entry into the workforce. For those who are not academically
inclined, community colleges provide an opportunity to enter the academic path
at a later opportune time when they are more prepared mentally.
Moreover, the "circularity" nature of the community college path to higher
education allows knowledge-seekers to move in and out of ever available higher
education as they climb up their career path. This means that age poses no
restrictions to education and "maturity" is used as a legitimate entry
qualification and yardstick for higher education.
As a central institution for life-long learning, community colleges play a vital
role in the overall national education system. They assume a similar role to
that of the Open University and Wawasan University, and provide individuals with
the opportunity to continuously improve their skills and knowledge.
In addition, community colleges now offer diploma courses, providing students
with the opportunity to move into the realm of full-time tertiary education at
public and private universities. With the additional funding for community
colleges in the 2007 budget and the open-door policy where these colleges cater
to all, almost everyone is eligible to benefit from their programs.
The establishment of branch campuses of more established community colleges will
bring educational opportunities to far-flung and underserved parliamentary
constituencies. The Ninth Malaysian Plan intends to construct community colleges
in at least 200 constituencies, which will give human capital development the
much-needed thrust it requires. The skill level of the Malaysian workforce will
be raised, productivity will be enhanced, and employment growth and
self-employment will be maximized.
In conclusion, community colleges are no longer just a second-chance
institution; they are fast becoming the first choice for those seeking
alternative education paths. With the right support and continued development,
community colleges will take their appropriate place in the overall national
education system and contribute to the growth and development of the country. |
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