WITH the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), smart technology is becoming increasingly mainstream in the global labour market.
The impact of adopting and practising new technology has caused immense shifts in our society and the workforce.
While many industries have seen massive innovation in a short few years as new technology and customer trends change, such change could be seen in job profiles.
Recognising its impact globally and nationally, there is a call for innovative undergraduate programmes to ensure that these transformations lead to a new age of good jobs, and improved quality of life for everyone.
Taylor’s University has introduced technology-based programmes including the Bachelor in Fashion Design Technology (Honours), and the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Robotic Design and Development – both of which are the first undergraduate degree of its kind in Malaysia.
The unique fashion design technology programme is offered by the Faculty of Innovation & Technology and combines standard design and sewing curriculum injected with technological components in both learning experience and module contents.
The programme has also partnered with Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW), promising international fashion exposure and experience for its students under the tutelage of KLFW founder and Bachelor in Fashion Design Technology programme co-director Andrew Tan.
The involvement with the premier fashion showcase is set to bring about a positive impact to the local fashion industry by producing more forward-thinking and skillful graduates.
The programme is also home to Malaysia’s first coworking fashion studio, Mayamode.
Located at the Taylor’s Lakeside Campus, the studio provides industry-grade tools and machinery not just for Taylor’s students but also to established and emerging fashion designers, fashion entrepreneurs and freelancers.
Furthermore, the university places itself at the forefront of robotics education and research with the launch of the bachelor’s degree in Robotic Design and Development.
This three-year course is an interdisciplinary programme, which combines specialisations in mechanical engineering, electrical and electronics engineering, and computer science.
As technology expands, so do the scopes of robotics.
This would include the development, creation and use of robots to explore the Earth’s harshest conditions, robots that assist in healthcare, and law enforcement among others.
However, a robot has consistent characteristics such as a mechanical construction to help complete tasks like assembling cars in automotive factories; they also require electrical components to control and power the machine, like a battery or electric wire; and some level of computer programming, with a set of codes that will give it the ability to know when and how to carry out its task.
The two-year academic semesters equip students with a sound understanding of fundamental theories and concepts in robotics technology.
During their final year, students are required to work at a company in partnership with Taylor’s – a year-long industry placement – for work-based learning experience, allowing students to work closely with industry experts to develop and integrate their knowledge and skills in multi-faceted areas.
It is part of Taylor’s commitment to facilitate a student-centred curriculum, while focusing on enhancing professional development at the same time, resulting in highly skilled and employable graduates who meet industry requirements.
For more information on how to future-proof your career join the annual Taylor’s Future Movement, visit https://uni.taylors.edu.my/taylorsphere/taylors-future-movement.