KUALA LUMPUR: The public need to change the perception that universities are the only avenue for developing talent and determining the success of young people, said Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir.
He said knowledge and skills in technical fields also opened up career opportunities for young people, including those who were less academically inclined.
"Over the past two years, we have often told the people that universities are not the only place for them to pursue their studies, but we also have other skills institutions such as polytechnics and community colleges that offer skills certificates in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
"For years, society has viewed polytechnics as a second choice for those who cannot get into university, but now applications to enter polytechnics have reached 132 per cent compared with 60 to 70 per cent previously," he said.
