Final Briefing Prepares Data Analytics Students Cohort 2023 for Work-Based Learning Placement
Final Briefing on Work-Based Learning (WBL) for Bachelor of Applied Science in Data Analytics with Honours Students Cohort 2023 was successfully conducted on 4 February 2026 (Wednesday) from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at ZDK4, UMPSA. The session recorded an excellent turnout, with 42 out of 43 students participating. The briefing served as the final pre-departure platform to ensure that all Cohort 2023 students are fully prepared before commencing their WBL placement from March 2026 to March 2027. Throughout the program, students were guided on expectations during placement, reporting and communication procedures, key documents and timelines, as well as essential workplace conduct aligned with industry standards. The session also provided an opportunity for students to clarify last-minute concerns, strengthen their readiness, and confirm their responsibilities as ambassadors of the programme and the university while undergoing industry-based learning.
Dr. Adam Shariff Adli Aminuddin, Head of Department Data Analytics, delivered the departmental amanat highlighting the importance of WBL as a capstone experience that bridges academic knowledge with real-world application. He emphasised professionalism, integrity, punctuality, and proactive learning as the core values that must be upheld throughout the placement period. The briefing was further supported by the WBL Committee members, Dr. Nur Haizum Abd Rahman and Dr. Nor Azuana Ramli, who covered key implementation matters and reinforced the operational flow of the WBL semester, including the roles of students, industry coaches, and university supervisors. In addition, Dr. Noraziah Adzhar from the Industrial Training Committee shared essential guidance on industrial training alignment, documentation, and compliance to ensure students understand the required processes and avoid common reporting issues.
A special highlight of the programme was the dedicated session delivered by Puan Nur Azila binti Osman, Counsellor from Pusat Sejahtera, UMPSA, titled “Healthy WBL Lifestyle.” This segment focused on student well-being and sustainability during the placement period, addressing practical strategies for maintaining healthy routines, managing stress, and balancing work responsibilities with personal care. Students were encouraged to practice positive coping techniques, maintain supportive communication with peers and supervisors, and seek help early if they experience difficulties adjusting to a new environment. The session also reminded students that mental and emotional well-being is a key driver of performance and professional growth, especially during a demanding transition from campus learning to workplace immersion. With strong participation and meaningful engagement, the final briefing concluded on a positive note, marking an important milestone for Cohort 2023 as they proceed confidently into their Work-Based Learning journey with clearer direction, stronger preparedness, and a shared commitment to represent their programme and UMPSA with excellence.
Author: Dr. Nur Haizum binti Abd Rahman