Montfort Boys Town champions AI, neurodiversity-friendly TVET education

Montfort Boys Town is making headway in creating a neurodiversity-friendly Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) environment.

The 66-year-old training institute, based in Shah Alam, Selangor, has been leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance teaching and learning for the benefit of neurotypical and neurodiverse learners alike.

The term “neurodiversity-friendly” refers to environments, workplaces or systems that are designed to accommodate and support individuals with diverse neurological conditions such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia and other neurological differences.

Courses at Montfort Boys Town now include basic AI knowledge – in line with the Malaysian government’s aspiration of creating a digital-savvy nation.

“Teachers also integrate discussions around using AI responsibly and emphasise that AI is being used to support learning, optimise time and prepare students for the modern design industry,” a statement by the institute read.

Montfort Boys Town teachers find AI tools particularly invaluable in making lessons more interactive and helping students learn at their own pace.

“Examples of AI applications include using Canva to generate graphic design suggestions, while tools like Midjourney (an AI image generator) support students in creating ideas quickly. Support software like Grammarly also offers guidance for writing assignments,” the statement added.

Malaysia, at the recent Asean TVET Council’s 4th Regional Policy Dialogue, underscored the role of TVET in promoting inclusivity, sustainability and workforce readiness for a dynamic economy.

As Asean chair this year, Malaysia has long championed TVET, stressing that such an education route is capable of producing work-ready graduates.

This year, Montfort Boys Town honoured 117 graduates – 84 young men and 33 young women.

Jackian Johari, from Gua Musang, Kelantan, received the Best Scholar Award.

“I was really shocked to receive the award, but I’m also very happy and grateful. I thank my family members, especially my father and brother, as well as my instructor and Brother Robin Devasagayam, who gave me the opportunity to study here,” said Jackian.

“As head prefect, we have to learn to put others before ourselves. At Montfort, I learnt how to balance my personal needs while taking care of the boys too.”

Reflecting on his future, the automotive graduate said:

“I plan to continue my studies to obtain the Level 3 Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) and eventually open my own company specialising in design and upgrade work.

“To my juniors, be patient and always keep dreaming. If you have dreams, you need to make them happen. Don’t wait. And always respect your family members, especially the elderly. Be humble, always.”

Fellow Scholar of the Year recipient Ellyna Mansor was equally surprised to hear her name announced.

“I didn’t expect this because I felt like I didn’t do enough. I feel so happy and excited. I want to thank my guardian and siblings for always supporting me, and the Montfort team – Miss Fatimah (Head of Department for Girls), Brother Robin and Mr Arul S – for guiding me.”

The bakery and pastry graduate, who was born in Cameron Highlands, Pahang, dreams of setting up a bakery.

“I plan to work for about 20 years to gain experience in the baking and hospitality industries. Eventually, I want to open my very own bakery in Cameron Highlands.”

Speaking about her experience assimilating into a new environment as an Orang Asal, Ellyna said: “At the beginning, it was difficult for me. As time passed, it got better as I made an effort to make new friends and be brave in talking to other people to understand them.”

The graduates completed their skills training at Montfort Boys Town in the areas of Graphic Design and Multimedia, Mechanical Engineering, Automotive, Hospitality, Bakery and Pastry, Electrical, and Facilities Maintenance (Management).

The graduating class of 2025 chose the theme “Prove Yourselves to the World”, depicting the group’s collective ambition and responsibility to apply their newly acquired skills and values for a better future for themselves, their families, community and country.

In his address to graduates, parents and industry partners, Montfort Boys Town director Brother Robin said:

“As we continue to provide character formation and skills training among the B40 group and deserving teenagers in our society, we embrace the challenge to enrol neurodivergent and neurotypical learners.”

“We are also amazed to see how marginalised teenagers from the Orang Asal community and neurotypical learners cope well and excel in their training.”

Berjaya Corporation founder Tan Sri Vincent Tan, who was the guest of honour at the graduation ceremony, said TVET is no longer a second option.

“In fact, the Malaysian government is actively investing in TVET excellence as a key to national development,” Tan said in his speech.

“In recent announcements, there is a renewed push to make Malaysia an Asean hub for TVET certification and excellence. This means these skills will not only be recognised here at home, but potentially across Southeast Asia, opening doors for regional employment and career growth. We strongly believe that TVET-trained graduates will build the future,” he added.

Main image: Ellyna (left) and Jackian.