New National Advisory Committee Aims to Align Academia with Corporate Needs!

Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Research, has unveiled plans for the establishment of a National Advisory Committee dedicated to align academia with corporate needs, in collaboration with Business Mauritius.

This significant announcement was made during the launch of the Capstone Showcase at Polytechnics Mauritius Ltd (PML) in Ébène.

The Capstone Showcase, a highlight of the National and Unified Research Week 2025, provided a platform for 100 final-year students from PML, who have pursued diplomas in Interactive and Digital Media, Cybersecurity, and Business Computing, to present their innovative projects to potential employers.

These enterprising students harnessed cutting-edge technologies to develop prototype solutions that address real-world challenges, thereby advancing the frontiers of technology.

Minister Sukon emphasised the urgent need for industries to open their doors to students, offering them invaluable internship opportunities.

He observed the disparity between the software and technologies utilised in universities and training institutions compared to those in the corporate world.

“It is imperative that students become acquainted with a variety of technologies to ensure their employability upon graduation,” he asserted.

Furthermore, he urged industry leaders to play an active role in shaping tailored study programmes that would bridge the skills gap.

He called upon them to collaborate with universities and training institutions by investing in student projects and research initiatives.

In a complementary address, Avinash Ramtohul, the Minister of Information Technology, extolled PML as a “model institution” that significantly contributes to the nation’s human capital and economic landscape.

He noted that the information technology sector accounts for approximately 6.3% of the GDP, with employers actively seeking graduates in computing.

He seized the opportunity to elucidate how students can leverage artificial intelligence to enhance their projects.

National Advisory Committee

Yamal Matabadul, the Director General of PML, underscored that the Capstone project is firmly rooted in polytechnic pedagogy, designed to bridge the chasm between education and employment.

He reminded attendees that this initiative also affords industry leaders a comprehensive overview of the skills possessed by students, potentially leading to future employment opportunities.

The establishment of the National Advisory Committee heralds a new era of synergy, promising to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving job market.

Source: Le Mauricien