The pace of technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence (AI), automation and digitalisation, is reshaping industries and job markets at an unprecedented rate, making it essential for workers to continuously update their skills and knowledge to keep up with these changes and remain relevant to the needs of their respective industries.
Fostering a lifelong learning mentality is crucial not only for individual career development but also for driving economic growth and innovation, particularly as Malaysia strives to build a higher-productivity workforce.
Following the success of the inaugural National Training Week (NTW) 2023 initiative, the Ministry of Human Resources, via the Human Resource Development Corp (HRD Corp), is set to continue its efforts with National Training Week 2024, underscoring its commitment to empowering Malaysians and ensuring an adaptable and resilient workforce.
NTW 2024, which will run from June 24 to 30, offers more than 25,000 courses for free.
These courses span diverse fields and are guided by the programme’s five pillars and focus areas: Life Skills; Future Skills; Creativity and Innovation; Financial; and Sustainable Development.
The courses are designed to be highly flexible, offering a variety of delivery modes, including physical, online, hybrid and self-paced options, to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules.
The courses are free and accessible for all Malaysians, regardless of their background or skill level.
This initiative aims to foster a culture of lifelong learning, which is essential for personal growth, adaptability and resilience.
This is especially important given the unpredictable future of work amid the rise of AI and other technological developments, which are likely to drastically reshape the job market.
On the other hand, NTW can be an avenue for training providers to showcase their courses.
Providers are encouraged to offer courses relevant to the current and future needs of the workforce to more effectively contribute to its development.
Overall, HRD Corp aims for 200,000 enrolments in 25,000 free courses during NTW 2024.
NTW 2023, held from May 22 to 28, 2023, marked a significant milestone in democratising learning and development opportunities for Malaysians.
This proactive approach to education and skill development helps bridge skill gaps, enhance employability and support the nation’s vision of becoming a knowledge-driven economy.
Launched as an annual initiative by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, the programme reached hundreds of thousands of participants from diverse backgrounds nationwide.
The event surpassed all initial targets, offering 21,473 courses, enrolling 129,312 participants and delivering 503,572 training hours.
NTW 2023 laid the foundation for ongoing educational empowerment and economic growth in Malaysia, paving the way for an even more impactful NTW 2024 — in line with the targets under the 12th Malaysia Plan which focus on higher labour productivity, lower skills-related underemployment and encouraging the digitalisation of businesses.
Both individuals and course providers can visit the platform at www.nationaltrainingweek.gov.my to register for the programme and obtain information about the courses offered as well as the latest updates.
While participation is free, seats are limited. Secure your spot now and join Malaysia’s journey towards a higher-productivity workforce.
Scan here to register for free training courses
Source: The Edge Malaysia
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