UNITAR International University announced a collaboration with Amazon Web Services to provide free cloud computing skills development and job training through the AWS re/Start program in Malaysia. AWS re/Start is a 12-week training program that prepares unemployed and underemployed individuals for cloud careers and connects them to potential employers.
As of August 2021, Malaysia’s unemployment rate stood at 4.8% with 768,700 unemployed persons, while there are jobs, according to 451 Research, 85% of organizations reported deficits in cloud expertise. Additionally, research from AlphaBeta showed that the need for advanced cloud computing and data skills in APAC is expected to triple by 2025 – the greatest increase forecasted across all digital skill competencies.
The first cohort includes a wide range of talents between the ages of 20-56. This group of students comes from a variety of backgrounds including engineering, banking, education & learning, and general administration.
The AWS re/Start program is part of Amazon’s upskilling commitment to help 29 million people globally grow their cloud computing skills for free by 2025. AWS re/Start has a presence in 95 cities in 38 countries, and the collaboration with UNITAR expands the global presence to Malaysia. Working closely alongside UNITAR on this upskilling initiative is Pertubuhan Keselamatan Sosial (PERKESO), a government agency under Malaysia’s Ministry of Human Resources. PERKESO will connect learners with potential employers in search of candidates with a cloud computing skillset.
Throughout the 12-week program, students will complete real-world-scenario-based exercises, hands-on labs, and coursework, to build Linux, Python, networking, security, and relational database skills. In addition, the program covers practical career skills, such as interviewing and resume writing, and also covers the cost for learners to take the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam so they can validate their cloud skills with an industry-recognized credential. Ultimately, AWS re/Start helps individuals prepare for roles in operations, site reliability, and infrastructure support.
Puvan Balachandran, Chief Executive Officer of UNITAR International University, said, “ This is aligned with the program’s mission to help unemployed and underemployed individuals who might not otherwise have access to technical education to develop the skills they need to pursue entry-level cloud roles.
