GEORGE TOWN: Some SPM leavers are not keen on pursuing a tertiary education and are looking into immediately founding their own start-ups in the gig economy.
However, they should first land a job to gain much-needed experience before venturing on their own, experts said.
“Learning from mistakes is an important experience for one’s career development,” said Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association president Datuk Seri Wong Siew Hai.
“Instead of immediately venturing into one’s start-up right after graduation, which may be risky or costly, one should join a company to pick up the necessary skills and experience,” he said.
Wong said SPM leavers should also consider acquiring technical and vocational education and training, since such skills would allow them to secure a career.
A recent UCSI Poll Research Centre study on 1,000 SPM leavers found that 49% have no intention of furthering their studies, 26% plan on becoming ehailing drivers, and 22% want to start an F&B business.
UOW Malaysia KDU Penang vice-chancellor Prof Dr Chong Beng Keok said those with higher academic qualifications would benefit from a more exciting and rewarding career later in their lives.
“Those with such qualifications and those without may be on an equal footing at the start of their careers. But those who chose to further their studies would gain more opportunities that would positively affect their lives later on,” she said.
Penang Institute executive director Datuk Dr Ooi Kee Beng said the issue could be due to an “uninspiring” education system.
“We are seeing that our students are not inspired to further their studies as they choose to start their careers immediately.
“It shows that the young are not feeling a sense of ownership of this country after going through schooling that has not inspired them to pursue further education. Without enthusiasm, they just want to end their schooling and get out as soon as possible.”
