A groundbreaking initiative to strengthen the integration of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) with Tahfiz education in Kedah has led to the successful development of the iPRO-Huffaz Model: An Integrated TVET–Tahfiz Model for Future-Ready Islamic Professionals.
The research team is led by Dr. Marina Abu Bakar from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Perlis, with QIU’s Dr. Hanizan Shaker Hussain playing a key collaborative role in the project. Other team members include Dr. Mohamad Fazali Ghazali, Puan Sukriah Ismail, Puan Syazwani Yahya and Dr. Tazifuzin Azmi. The project also involves GIATMARA Negeri Pulau Pinang, underscoring the strong academia–industry partnership behind the initiative.
At the heart of the project is the iPRO-Huffaz Model, which aims to produce graduates who are not only spiritually grounded through Tahfiz education, but also technically competent and future-ready through TVET-based learning. By combining Islamic values, technical skills and leadership development, the model is designed to meet the evolving needs of industry and society while supporting a more holistic approach to education.
The model’s innovative value was recognised internationally when the collaborative team won a Gold Award at the International Virtual Competition of Creative & Innovative Idea 2026 on 16 May 2026. The award was presented under the Professional Participation Category (Category A) in recognition of the team’s creative approach to integrating TVET competencies with Tahfiz education.
Beyond its academic achievements, the project contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). More importantly, it reflects a shared commitment to developing future Islamic professionals who can contribute meaningfully to national development, community well-being and a sustainable workforce ecosystem.
