SERDANG, 11 October 2024 – Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) today launched an innovative app, Job Hunting and Networking (JoHAN), aimed at empowering students through part-time job opportunities while enhancing graduate employability.

The app launch was officiated by UPM Vice-Chancellor, YBhg. Dato' Prof. Dr. Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah, at the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Arts and Cultural Centre, UPM Serdang, in conjunction with the Vice-Chancellor’s Address and the 2024/2025 New Student Oath Ceremony.

JoHAN, developed by the Information and Communication Development Centre (iDEC) in collaboration with the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Graduate Employability (CEM), is a digital platform supporting the gig economy initiative. The app provides students with easy access to find part-time jobs and offers them a chance to market their skills to various organizations, both on and off campus.

According to CEM Director, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hizmawati Madzin, JoHAN replaces the previous manual system used for the UPM Student Service Workers (PKP) program.

"JoHAN not only makes it easier for students to find part-time jobs, but it also helps them generate additional income while enhancing their skills and gaining valuable work experience," she explained.

JoHAN is equipped with a centralized database system that allows for more efficient and systematic online job application and offer processes.

The first phase of the app focuses on jobs offered by UPM's Responsibility Centers (PTJ), while the second phase will expand to include external organizations, giving students even more job opportunities.

The launch of this app has been well-received by the campus community, especially new students, who can now easily gain work experience while studying. Through JoHAN, students have the opportunity to improve their skills, expand industry networks, and develop personalities ready to face the real working world after graduation.

JoHAN is expected to become a vital tool in strengthening UPM's learning ecosystem, thereby enhancing graduate competitiveness in an increasingly challenging job market. - CEM.

Watch the launching video HERE.

Date of Input: 11/10/2024 | Updated: 11/10/2024 | ludinata