He said TVET places more emphasis on practical skills and job competencies, while universities focus on theory, critical thinking and professional development.
"This difference also influences the type of career pursued, with TVET graduates more likely to become technicians, technologists, supervisors or entrepreneurs, while university graduates usually fill professional, management, research and academic positions," he said.
He said that a perception study conducted on 30 employers from local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) found that TVET graduates and university graduates have almost equal levels of ability, but TVET graduates stand out more in terms of preparedness to enter the world of work.
However, he said TVET still faces challenges in terms of recognition equivalent to academic pathways, particularly in relation to qualification equivalence, credit transfer and public perception that still considers TVET as a second choice.
Razman Hafifi said parents and students need to make choices based on interests, abilities and career aspirations, not just academic achievements.
"For students who aspire to become entrepreneurs or work independently, the TVET route as early as age 16 may be a suitable option, while for those aiming for professional careers and management positions, completing SPM before continuing their studies to a higher level may be more profitable.
"If a student is weak in Mathematics and Science, it may be difficult for them to choose engineering, but that does not mean they are unsuitable or will fail if they choose TVET.
"This is because the field offers various programs other than engineering, with levels of study that can be adjusted according to students' abilities and interests," he said.
