Kota Kinabalu: Yayasan Sabah College of Technology (KTYS) aims to play a crucial role in the State’s educational development and foster an educated society.
Kolej Komuniti Yayasan Sabah (KKYS) Chairperson cum KTYS CEO Datuk Tah Nia Jaman said the college serves as the education vehicle for Yayasan Sabah.
“KTYS runs various programmes to support students from diverse academic backgrounds, including those who did not perform well in their SPM exams or did not sit for them,” she said
“The college provides learning opportunities for everyone.
“We offer these opportunities to help our children receive the education they can afford and deserve.
“Whether they are top students or have lower grades, we provide a path for them to further their education.”
She emphasised the importance of continuous education and the belief that every student can succeed, regardless of their starting point.
One of KTYS’s aims is to enhance social mobility, she said.
“KTYS aims to be the gateway to broad educational access in Sabah, allowing students to complete their studies without leaving the State.
“KTYS is unique as the only college under Yayasan Sabah, enabling it to assist more students.
“Another advantage is the availability of funding for courses, with 60-70 per cent of students accessing financial aid.
“For those who do not qualify, the college helps secure other sponsorships,” she said.
Since its inception in 1990, KTYS has produced over 7,700 graduates from its main courses, with even more completing its short-term programmes.
“Early childhood education is one of the most popular courses among students, which has garnered significant attention from SPM school leavers.
“Despite the popularity of early childhood education, other courses at KTYS also receive strong interest.”
Tah Nia said the college offers various programmes, including those developed in collaboration with industry partners and skill-based courses.
This diversity ensures that KTYS meets its students’ varied interests and career goals, solidifying its reputation for comprehensive and inclusive educational offerings.
As for new courses, KTYS offers a new Diploma in Islamic Studies following a successful collaboration with Universiti Islam Melaka.
“The demand for this programme in Sabah remains high.”
Additionally, the college provides a special preparatory programme for students heading to the Middle East to study various Islamic disciplines.
The three-month course prepares students in areas such as conversational Arabic.
The course is limited to 30 students per batch. Last year’s first batch was funded by Yayasan Sabah, and this year’s batch is funded by the State Government.
KTYS also collaborates with DRB Hicom, offering students the chance to pursue a Higher Diploma and secure guaranteed employment.
To date, the college collaborates with over 10 universities and industry players, including Petronas.
In 2010, Petronas provided materials and equipment to help establish a High-Impact Welding programme at KTYS’s Likas campus.
Meanwhile, KTYS will hold an Open Day at its City Campus, in Sembulan, here, tomorrow (Saturday), from 8.30am to 3pm.
“This event allows students and parents to learn about the college, its courses, facilities and funding options.
“Sponsors will also be present to assist with applications,” said Tah Nia.
This year’s goal for new student enrollment is over 1,300, with the first phase targeting 420 students.
The Open Day is expected to attract over 1,000 visitors, including parents.
