SHAH ALAM, 17 Nov 2008: Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim today proposed the setting up of Technical and Vocational religious schools in Selangor for those interested to pursue religious education up to Form Five.
Abdul Khalid who met teachers of Fardhu Ain Religious Classes (KAFA) during a special meeting at the Melawati Stadium here today, said he was informed that requests for religious studies had increased but places at such schools in the state were limited.
As such, the setting up of technical and vocational schools can help students who wish to pursue such studies, he said.
He added that it was about time for technical and vocational studies to be incorporated with religious education due to a big demand for qualified workers in the country.
Abdul Khalid said since religious schools and education fall under the purview of the Selangor Religious Affairs Department (JAIS), the state government would meet them to prepare a blueprint within six months.
Speaking of funds for the setting up of such institutions, Abdul Khalid said: “We would love to receive funds from the Federal because it will be good for the whole nation since such institutions can churn out young skilled workers.”
Abdul Khalid also announced an increase in allowances for KAFA teachers from RM738.30 to RM1,000 while the KAFA administrator’s allowance would be raised from RM1,112 to RM1,500 plus insurance coverage from Takaful, starting January.
He added that KAFA teachers with Diplomas in Teaching from public or private Higher Learning Institutions, including Kolej Universiti Islam Selangor (KUIS) stood a chance to be employed as permanent teachers by the state government. — Bernama
