UOA Academy and Care Concierge Academy (Care Concierge) have sealed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking the start of a partnership to introduce an Elderly Care programme within the framework of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system.

This partnership underscores UOA Academy’s commitment to uplift local communities, especially among the B40 demographic, through education and job placement initiatives.

UOA Academy head Aqmal Fikri and Care Concierge chief executive officer Martin Yap Lu Hoong signed the MOU in the presence of academy principal, and chief learning officer Haikal Akmar, and Care Concierge general manager Leroy Chiam.

Both entities will jointly conduct the Professional Certificate in Elderly Care programme via the TVET system.

The course is aimed at equipping Malaysians with skills to provide top-tier care for the nation’s ageing population.

According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, by 2035, Malaysia will have an ageing population of 5.6 million seniors, or 15% of the total population.

This surge presents a big challenge, underlining the urgent need for qualified caregivers to cater to this population group.

The seven-month training programme is designed to give students comprehensive knowledge for delivering exceptional care to the elderly.

Encompassing topics such as gerontology, dementia care, first aid, and communication skills, the programme adopts a blended learning approach.

It comprises 70% practical training at Care Concierge and 30% theoretical instruction in UOA Academy classrooms, facilitated by experienced trainers from both institutions.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Care Concierge in launching this pivotal programme,” he said.

“The Professional Certificate in Elderly Care is poised to equip Malaysians with skills to positively impact the lives of older adults.

“By nurturing a new cadre of caregivers capable of delivering premium care, we are steadfast in our commitment to ensure the welfare of our aging population.

“This partnership will extend our outreach and provide greater accessibility to essential care services for Malaysians.”

Following the inauguration of the first cohort in December 2023, the programme’s second batch begins this August.

It is expected to attract a diverse group of students from the Orang Asli and B40 communities.

This strategic collaboration underscores inclusivity, offering qualifications and employment avenues for trainees from underprivileged backgrounds, thereby fostering empowerment within the workforce.