TP-Link expands university ecosystem with USIM to scale enterprise networking talent pipeline

• Partnership builds on wider efforts to prepare students for digital infrastructure demands
• Collaboration integrates enterprise networking infrastructure, certification & industry training into campus learning

TP-Link Distribution Malaysia Sdn Bhd is expanding its talent development efforts through a new collaboration with Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), reinforcing its push to build a stronger pipeline of enterprise networking professionals across Malaysia.

Rather than operating as a standalone academic partnership, the collaboration forms part of TP-Link Malaysia’s broader strategy to connect universities into an industry-aligned ecosystem where students are trained, certified and prepared for workforce demands in enterprise networking and digital infrastructure.

The Memorandum of Understanding formalises a three-year collaboration focused on integrating enterprise networking capabilities into USIM’s academic environment. As part of the initiative, TP-Link Malaysia will deploy its Omada enterprise networking solutions within campus labs, allowing students to train on infrastructure that reflects real-world enterprise environments.

The programme combines hands-on technical training, structured workshops and access to the Omada Certified Network Administrator (OCNA) certification pathway, helping students graduate with industry-recognised competencies and practical experience.

A key component of the collaboration is direct industry exposure, with students offered industrial training and internship placements with TP-Link Malaysia, providing practical experience and a clearer pathway into employment within Malaysia’s digital economy.

Hugo Cai, regional director of TP-Link Malaysia, said enterprises today require talent that can “operate, not just understand” digital infrastructure.

“By connecting training, certification and industry exposure, we are creating a more direct pathway from university to employment. The focus is no longer just on education, but on how effectively talent can transition into industry,” he said.

Prof Dr Mohd Ikmar Nizam Hj Mohamad Isa, deputy vice-chancellor (Research and Innovation) of USIM, said the partnership strengthens the university’s efforts to integrate practical industry elements into the student learning experience.

“This collaboration allows us to better prepare students for evolving industry expectations and real-world digital economy demands,” he said.

The collaboration builds on TP-Link Malaysia’s earlier engagements with Universiti Malaya and Universiti Teknologi Mara, forming a growing network of institutions aligned towards developing enterprise networking talent. In 2025, around 500 students participated in the OCNA certification pathway, reflecting growing demand for industry-aligned digital skills programmes.

Beyond talent development, both organisations will also explore collaboration in research, faculty engagement and knowledge exchange, further strengthening links between academia and industry practice.

As Malaysia continues expanding its digital infrastructure and enterprise technology ecosystem, initiatives that connect education directly with industry requirements are expected to play an increasingly important role in developing the country’s digital workforce.