PETALING JAYA, 29 August 2026 (The Capital Post) – CelcomDigi Berhad (CelcomDigi) and HELP University will collaborate to develop high-potential Malaysian students into future digital talent through work-based learning, industry mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
The collaboration aims to strengthen industry relevance in higher education by combining academic knowledge with practical industry experience, while supporting the development of a future-ready talent pipeline for Malaysia.
A key focus is the development of Work-Based Learning (WBL) opportunities for eligible HELP University students across different years and levels of study.
Through exposure to real business projects and work environments, students will be able to apply their academic knowledge while gaining insights into the telecommunications and technology sector.
The partnership will also explore corporate and industry mentorship opportunities, connecting students with experienced CelcomDigi professionals to deepen their understanding of workplace expectations and help guide their career decisions.
Both organisations will also explore pathways aligned with the 2U1I nomenclature – “2 Years University-Based Learning, 1 Year Industry-Based Learning” – providing a structured framework for students to complement their academic studies with hands-on industry exposure.
For HELP University, the partnership forms part of its wider commitment to combining academic rigour with meaningful industry exposure, equipping students with the knowledge, experience and professional capabilities required to navigate the future of work.
A significant area of the collaboration will focus on artificial intelligence (AI) leadership and innovation through an AI Hub at HELP University.
The initiative will bring academia and industry together in areas including applied AI projects, research and innovation, industry engagement, capability and talent development, as well as knowledge exchange in AI and other emerging technologies.
“The future of tertiary education lies in bringing the classroom and the workplace closer together. Universities have an important role to play not only in providing students with a strong academic foundation, but also in ensuring that they understand how that knowledge is applied in the real world,” said Dr Goh Chee Leong, Group Co-CEO (Tertiary), HELP Education Group.
-Advertisement-
He said the collaboration with CelcomDigi would allow students to experience an industry environment before graduation through the 2 Years University-Based Learning, 1 Year Industry-Based Learning model.
“Through the unique 2 Years University-Based Learning, 1 Year Industry-Based Learning model, they will be able to develop their capabilities in an industry setting, learn from professionals and gain a clearer understanding of what will be expected of them as they enter the workforce,” he said.
CelcomDigi Chief Human Resources Officer Azmi Ujang said continued economic growth would require a strong pipeline of talent equipped with technical knowledge and a practical understanding of how businesses operate and innovate.
“Closer engagement between academia and industry can help create richer learning experiences that better prepare students for the realities of the modern workplace,” he said.
He added that employers increasingly value adaptability, problem-solving and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world settings beyond academic achievement.
“Through this partnership, we hope to broaden opportunities for students to develop these qualities, strengthening graduate employability while supporting the talent needs of Malaysia’s evolving digital economy,” he said.
In addition to the WBL programme, the partnership will broaden access to education and lifelong learning opportunities for CelcomDigi employees and their children.
HELP University will offer a range of learning programmes, including short courses, micro-credentials, executive education, customised programmes and professional certifications, covering both credit-bearing and non-credit-bearing options.
The collaboration provides a broader framework for CelcomDigi and HELP University to strengthen academia-industry engagement, supporting students at the start of their educational journeys as well as working professionals seeking to develop new capabilities throughout their careers. – The Capital Post
