Wawasan Open University and Sophic Automation Partner to Offer Work-Based Learning for Engineering Students

If you’re thinking about studying engineering and want more than just classroom learning, here’s some exciting news for you. 

Wawasan Open University (WOU) has partnered with Sophic Automation, a leading engineering company in Penang, to offer work-based learning (WBL). This is a perfect opportunity for engineering students enrolled in the university’s Bachelor of Technology (Honours) in Mechatronic Systems (BTMS).

This means you won’t just study theories in class, you’ll actually work in the industry, learn hands-on skills, and earn credits toward your degree at the same time.

What Is Work-Based Learning (WBL)?

Work-based learning is a modern way of studying where students gain real work experience while completing their university degree. Through this new partnership, students in WOU’s Bachelor of Technology (Honours) in Mechatronic Systems (BTMS) will be placed with Sophic Automation for on-the-job training.
So if you're studying mechatronics, you won't just learn from books, you’ll apply your knowledge in real projects, use actual machines, and work side by side with engineers. It’s like getting an internship that’s part of your course!

About the Programme: WOU BTMS

The Bachelor of Technology (Honours) in Mechatronic Systems (BTMS) is one of WOU’s flagship programmes focused on equipping students with interdisciplinary skills in mechanics, electronics, and automation systems. The programme is tailored to match the needs of Malaysia’s smart manufacturing and robotics sectors. 

Now, with the WBL pathway, it is even more attractive to students seeking engineering internships that lead to full-time opportunities. With this partnership, WOU BTMS students can directly apply classroom theory into fields like:

• Industrial Automation
• Robotics & Control Systems
• Machine Vision & IoT
• Electrical Systems & Embedded Electronics

The integration of WBL in Wawasan Open University programmes makes it easier for working adults and fresh school-leavers alike to pursue a career-focused education.

Hands-On Learning for Future Engineers

The collaboration enables qualified BTMS students at WOU to undergo structured on-the-job training at Sophic Automation while continuing their academic studies. This work-based learning in Malaysia is designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with real industrial practice, allowing students to earn course credits while gaining valuable work experience.

According to Prof Ts Dr Yap Eng Hwa, Associate Vice-Chancellor of WOU, this initiative is part of the university’s mission to create strong academia-industry links.

What’s in It for You?

Here’s why this partnership is a big deal, especially if you’re planning to join the BTMS programme at WOU:

✅ Real Industry Experience

You’ll work at Sophic Automation during your degree. This gives you hands-on skills in areas like automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing, skills that are highly valued by employers.

✅ Get Hired Faster

Having real-world experience on your resume makes you stand out when applying for jobs. Many students struggle to get hired because they lack experience. With WOU’s WBL model, you’ll graduate with both a degree and work experience.

✅ Earn While You Learn

Some placements may offer an allowance, depending on the company’s requirements. You get to learn, work, and possibly earn while you study.

✅ Study and Work in Malaysia

For international students, this is a great opportunity to experience Malaysia’s fast-growing tech industry, learn in a multicultural environment, and explore career options after graduation.

Why This Partnership Matters for Sophic Automation

For Sophic Automation, teaming up with Wawasan Open University is a smart move to build future talent and stay ahead in the fast-evolving tech industry. Here's how this partnership supports their growth:

Build a Strong Talent Pipeline

Sophic can identify and train potential engineers early, students who are already learning relevant skills in WOU’s BTMS programme. This helps the company secure future hires who are already familiar with its systems and work culture.

Access to Fresh Ideas

By working with students who are learning the latest academic knowledge and tech skills, Sophic gains exposure to new perspectives and innovative thinking that can improve workflows and spark creative solutions.

Support Sustainable Workforce Growth

Instead of spending months training fresh graduates, Sophic can now develop industry-ready employees from day one. These students understand real-world challenges and can hit the ground running after graduation.

This partnership is a win for industry, helping companies like Sophic stay competitive, innovative, and prepared for future growth.

The MoU Signing: A Step Forward

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was officially signed on 23 April 2025 at Sophic Automation’s headquarters in Penang. Signatories included Prof Yap from WOU and Koh Dim Kuan from Sophic, with support from Assoc Prof Ts Dr Sean Tan Koon Tatt, Dean of WOU’s School of Technology and Engineering Science, and Janniece Loh, Chief Culture Officer at Sophic.

The event marks a significant milestone in the development of industry-relevant university education in Malaysia, particularly for students interested in mechatronics engineering.

Why Choose Wawasan Open University?

WOU has built a reputation as one of the top open universities in Malaysia, offering flexible, affordable, and high-quality degree programmes. Whether you're a fresh school-leaver or a working professional, Wawasan Open University provides accessible education with strong industry engagement.

Here’s why more students are choosing WOU:

• Flexible learning model for part-time and full-time students.
• Industry-relevant courses like mechatronics, IT, business, and education.
• Campuses and learning centres across Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Johor Bahru, and Kuching.
• Work-based learning options for practical experience.

If you’re searching for a mechatronic systems degree in Malaysia that combines theory with real-world practice, the WOU BTMS with work-based learning is a strong contender.

Final Thoughts

The WOU-Sophic partnership reflects a forward-thinking approach to education, where students don’t just study, they contribute, innovate, and grow inside real businesses. As Malaysia pushes toward IR4.0 and smart industry transformation, programmes like WOU’s BTMS with work-based learning will play a critical role in preparing future engineers and technologists.

For students, this is a rare opportunity to graduate with both a degree and solid industry experience. For employers, it’s a step toward closing the skills gap and ensuring a steady stream of capable, work-ready talent.