With Participants from Pacos Trust
The Biji-biji Initiative, an impact-driven business founded in 2013, partnered with Microsoft Malaysia, has successfully conducted the Microsoft Skills for Jobs – Collective Impact Program at Sabah Skills & Technology Centre (SSTC) on 14-15 July 2023. This program, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, aims to empower and upskill NGOs and individuals from underserved communities in Malaysia. By equipping them with digital skills, technology, and social innovation support, the program seeks to improve their employment opportunities and overall quality of life.
The Collective Impact Program is made possible through the collaboration of Microsoft Malaysia, CIMB Foundation, and Axiata Foundation, who are working together to address the specific needs of underserved communities and support their economic growth.
With SSTC Students
The primary objective of the program is to uplift the lives of individuals in the underserved and B40 (bottom 40% income group) communities by providing them with valuable digital skills and technology support. Additionally, the program aims to empower NGOs by equipping them with the latest Microsoft skills, enabling them to better serve their beneficiaries. Ultimately, the program seeks to facilitate job placements and create career opportunities for the participants.
The Biji-biji Initiative has partnered with the Sabah Skills & Technology Centre (SSTC) as the venue sponsor and recruitment partner for the program. This collaboration is crucial in reaching out to the target communities and ensuring the success of the initiative. By utilizing SSTC’s facilities and expertise, the program can provide a conducive environment for learning and skill development.
The program was conducted by Mr. Rahul Thomas, a cybersecurity expert, who served as the trainer for the participants. Mr. Thomas brought his extensive knowledge and experience to the program, ensuring that the participants received high-quality training. Throughout the workshop, the participants learned various Microsoft tools and applications, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Additionally, they were exposed to innovative platforms such as ClipChamp, Sway, and ChatGPT, which provided them with valuable insights into digital content creation, collaboration, and communication.
Fifteen (15) individuals from Pacos Trust joined the program on its initial day, an organization supporting indigenous communities in Sabah. These participants represent the diverse range of beneficiaries who can benefit from the digital skilling program. On the second day, twenty (20) students from SSTC, hailing from the B40 communities as well, actively participated in the workshops and skill-building activities. The engagement of these participants highlights their eagerness to learn and improve their digital literacy.
The workshops followed an interactive and hands-on approach, allowing participants to practice and develop practical skills applicable to their work and daily lives. By enhancing their digital skills, participants are better prepared to succeed in the modern job market and contribute to the growth of their communities.
SSTC eagerly anticipates future collaborations with the Biji-biji Initiative to provide assistance for comparable programs.
