School dropouts can develop baking skills at centre

 SCHOOL dropouts who are interested in baking can pursue their passion at the Pusat Latihan Kemahiran Bakeri dan Kek in Taman Cemerlang, Gombak.
The training centre, which is part of the Koperasi Belia Islam Malaysia Berhad in collaboration with the Human Resources Ministry, train youngsters in baking biscuits and cakes.
According to Pusat Latihan Kemahiran Bakeri dan Kek manager Norahaslina Nadzri, the centre has been operating for two years and has equipped school dropouts with baking skills.
Helping hand: Students at the training centre in Gombak making Hari Raya cookies.
“We have an understanding with Giant, Big Apple and Delifrance, where those who undergo our training will eventually be working at these renowned companies.
“They could earn RM800 to RM1,500 a month at these companies when they start working.
Norahaslina said there were also slow learners in the classes.
“We take students or dropouts aged 15 years old and above to enrol into our two-year programme. The next enrolment is September,’’ said Norahaslina, adding that accommodation is provided at the training centre.
Syafiqah Rosli, 17, who stopped school last year, said that she has a keen interest in baking and would someday open a bakery.
“Now, I have to gain experience working in other bakeries until I can save money and open my own,’’ she said.
Abdul Hanan Ibrahim, 19, loves baking cookies and cakes and knows that there is a bright future in this line.
All ready: Students showing the many variety of cookies that are up for sale.
“Someday, I would like to work in a hotel as a chef specialising in making cookies and cakes,’’ he said.
To enrol, each student has to pay a registration fee of RM300 and RM8,500 for the entire programme for a year.
However, each student can apply for a student loan for the RM8,500 from the government.
Norahaslina added that they receive special orders like birthday cakes and cookies where the studentr can earn some extra income.
For this Ramadan period, the student bake cookies like red pearl, chocolate chip, lonely heart, strawberry delights and samprit that are sold at RM25 each container.
Those interested in joining the programme or buying cookies can call 03-414 72143 or e-mail kbihq@kbi.com.my
Source: http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/8/19/central/9260976&sec=central