GEORGE TOWN: Nineteen public universities are participating in the Higher Education Ministry's (MoHE) Research and Industry-Infused Incubator (MRI3) programme, previously known as the Industry-Infused Programme (IIP), aimed at developing high-skilled graduates.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed said the programme is being conducted in collaboration with 27 companies to fill the need for a highly-skilled workforce by various industries.
"Based on preliminary surveys of the industries involved in MRI3 by USM's Industry and Community Network Division, it is estimated that more than 500 positions will be offered by 27 industry players, including strategic partners, for next year.
"The placements are more than double the initial target of 200 students for next year," he said after the launch of the MRI3 programme at the Setia Convention Centre here today (December 14).
The participating universities and industries also signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) witnessed by the USM Board of Governors chairman Datuk Seri Dr Awang Adek Hussin.
Abdul Rahman said in addition to the 27 industries and strategic partners who signed the MoU, over 100 companies from the electrical and electronic sectors were present at the event.
"The programme provides industrial exposure and enables students to continue working within the same industry with a premium starting salary of more than RM4,000 upon graduation," he said.
He said students selected for the MRI3 programme will be stationed in USM during their final year project and receive a minimum allowance of RM1,500 per month, as well as skills training with equipment and content sponsored by the respective industries.
Former Higher Education Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin previously said the IIP, which was first introduced in USM, would be expanded to other universities.
Mohamed Khaled was quoted as saying the IIP would enhance the marketability of graduates as it is based on a focused approach to what is learned at university. — Bernama
