PETALING JAYA, 28 August 2026 – 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. By bringing together academic knowledge and practical industry experience, the collaboration aims to strengthen industry relevance in higher education and support the development of a future-ready talent pipeline for Malaysia.
A key focus of the collaboration 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 genuine work environments, students will have the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge while gaining valuable insights into the telecommunications and technology sector.
The partnership will also explore corporate and industry mentorship opportunities by connecting students with experienced CelcomDigi professionals to deepen their understanding of workplace expectations and guide them towards making informed career decisions.
Both organisations will explore pathways aligned with the 2U1I nomenclature – “2 Years University-Based Learning, 1 Year Industry-Based Learning” – creating a structured framework for students to complement their academic years with hands-on industry exposure and strengthen their readiness for the workforce.
For HELP University, the partnership forms part of its wider commitment to delivering an education that combines academic rigour with meaningful industry exposure, ensuring that students are equipped not only with qualifications, but with the knowledge, experience and professional capabilities required to navigate the future of work.
Driving AI Leadership and Innovation
A significant area of the collaboration is AI leadership and innovation. The parties intend to collaborate through an AI Hub at HELP University, bringing academia and industry together in areas such as applied AI projects, research and innovation, industry engagement, capability and talent development, and knowledge exchange in artificial intelligence 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.
He added, “Our collaboration with CelcomDigi gives our students the opportunity to experience that environment before they graduate. 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.”
"Continued economic growth for the country will require a strong pipeline of talent equipped with both technical knowledge and 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," said Azmi Ujang, CelcomDigi’s Chief Human Resources Officer.
"Beyond academic achievement, employers increasingly value adaptability, problem-solving and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world settings. 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 added.
In addition to the WBL programme, the partnership will also broaden access to education and lifelong learning opportunities for CelcomDigi employees and their children. As part of this effort, HELP University will offer a range of learning programmes, including short courses, micro-credentials, executive education, customised programmes and professional certifications, encompassing both credit-bearing and non-credit-bearing options.
Together, the various areas of collaboration establish a broad structure for CelcomDigi and HELP University to enhance engagement between academia and industry – from students beginning their educational journeys to working professionals seeking to develop new capabilities throughout their careers.
