We recently concluded our second ‘Future Graduates Roundtable’ discussion in Malaysia which brought together students and educators from various universities, doubling the participation from last year. The event aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical studies and real-world applications focusing on AI, infrastructure engineering and cyber security. By bringing together a diverse group of participants, we sought to foster meaningful dialogue and collaboration, helping students gain valuable insights into the industry's evolving landscape.
The event featured a guest of honour – Tom Shepherd, acting deputy British High Commissioner – alongside distinguished guests from TalentCorp, MDEC, NACSA, CSM, British Council and BMCC. In her opening remarks, Sugeeta Bhanoo, Director of BAE Systems Digital Intelligence Malaysia, emphasised the importance of engaging with students entering the workforce. She addressed the ongoing issues of underemployment in Malaysia, noting the government is actively seeking solutions to these challenges through various initiatives aimed at enhancing skills development and improving job readiness among graduates.
“Events such as this are crucial to helping those who will soon be entering the workforce understand what the industry is looking for,” Sugeeta stated, urging participants to engage actively with the presenters. She also highlighted the vital role educators’ play in influencing change and shaping curricula to better align with industry needs.
“Events such as this are crucial to helping those who will soon be entering the workforce understand what the industry is looking for”Sugeeta Bhanoo, Head of Capabilities BAE Systems Digital Intelligence Malaysia
Encouraging conversation
The format of the event fostered open dialogue, allowing participants to interact with industry experts, share their insights and ask questions. This collaborative atmosphere aimed to break down barriers between students and industry professionals, ensuring that attendees felt comfortable discussing their aspirations and concerns.
David Appleton, capabilities business manager and engineering lead, shared insights on AI, demystifying the technology and discussing its practical implications in industry. Khalil Rahman, senior infrastructure engineer, focused on IT infrastructure, cloud solutions and the evolution of data centres in Malaysia. He gave practical insights on the skills and certifications that would enable students meet the growing demand for infrastructure skillsets in Malaysia.
We also had the privilege of hearing from two junior cyber security researchers on their career journey at BAE Systems. Farihatul Husna Abd Razak and Syadza Mohd Rezal brought enthusiasm and real-world perspectives that resonated with the audience. Their stories not only underscored the importance of adaptability and continuous learning, but also inspired students to consider diverse career paths within the tech landscape.
Nurturing the next generation
The event included networking activities that encouraged students to connect with each other and industry professionals. These interactions are important because they help students build relationships, share ideas and learn about potential career paths. Networking can open doors to future opportunities, making it easier for students to navigate their career journeys.
Lastly we underscored our commitment to nurturing and supporting the next generation of professionals, focusing on knowledge sharing and networking. Students were reminded that challenges and setbacks are integral to the learning process, often leading to significant growth. By highlighting the importance of curiosity and passion, BAE Systems aims to inspire future graduates to embrace their journeys and pursue continuous learning and development. We thank the participating universities and look forward to hosting the event again.