APU Workshop Equips Students for the Digital Economy

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Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing financially responsible graduates through the Empowering Financial Futures: The Digital Way workshop, held on 27 October 2025. The initiative was organised by the APU AKPK Grow Club in collaboration with Vilja Solutions, a leading digital core banking platform provider, and the Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency (AKPK). 

The collaborative programme was spearheaded by the School of Accounting and Finance (SoAF) under the leadership of its Head of School, Professor Dr Chong Lee Lee, and supervised by Lecturer Dr Shim Pui Sen, with strong support from the School’s academic team and industry partners. Designed to bridge classroom learning with real-world financial practices, the workshop brought together 71 students for an engaging and highly practical learning experience. 

Equipping Students with Essential Digital Finance Skills 

The workshop featured a comprehensive programme covering essential aspects of modern financial management, including budgeting, saving, debt management, investing, cybersecurity awareness, and emerging trends in digital banking. 

Students benefited from expert insights delivered by prominent industry practitioners. Mr Robert Petersson, Founder of Vilja Solutions, shared valuable perspectives on the transformation of banking through fintech innovations and digital infrastructure. His session highlighted how technological advancements are reshaping financial services and creating new opportunities for consumers and businesses alike. 

Complementing this perspective, Mr Vickneswaran Muniandy, Senior Executive at AKPK, provided practical guidance on responsible financial behaviour, emphasising strategies for effective debt management and financial planning in an increasingly complex economic environment. 

The event also received support from Mr Anil Gill, President of the Fintech Association of Malaysia (FAOM), underscoring the importance of strong collaboration between academia and industry in preparing future professionals for the rapidly evolving financial landscape. 

Interactive Learning and Industry Engagement 

Beyond the expert talks, the workshop featured a series of interactive discussions, knowledge-sharing activities, and a research survey conducted by Vilja Solutions, enabling students to actively engage with emerging digital banking concepts. 

The event was guided by Professor Ir EUR ING Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam, APU’s Chief Innovation & Enterprise Officer, and supported by lecturers from SoAF — Ms Patricia Rayappan, Ms Noor Fadzilah Mohamad, and Ms Noor Izzati Ab Rahman — who played a key role in facilitating discussions and mentoring students throughout the programme. 

Ensuring the smooth flow of the event were the emcees Ms Sara Alsabsabi, Intern and Project Manager from Vilja Solutions, and Ms Wong Angel, Project Manager of the APU AKPK Grow Club, whose coordination contributed to the event’s lively and engaging atmosphere. 

Preparing Responsible Digital Citizens

By the end of the session, students gained greater confidence in using digital financial tools, learned how to identify and protect themselves from online scams, and strengthened their understanding of financial responsibility within a digital economy. 

For many participants, the workshop provided valuable exposure to real-world financial challenges and practical strategies for managing personal finances — skills that are increasingly vital for young adults navigating today’s technology-driven financial ecosystem. 

Supporting Student Wellbeing Beyond the Classroom

More importantly, initiatives such as this reflect APU’s holistic approach to education, where academic excellence is complemented by programmes that nurture responsible, informed and resilient individuals. 

Professor Dr Chong Lee Lee highlighted that financial literacy is a critical life skill for the younger generation. 

“At APU, we believe that education extends beyond academic knowledge. By equipping our students with financial literacy, digital awareness, and responsible decision-making skills, we are empowering them to navigate real-world financial challenges with confidence. Programmes such as this ensure that our students not only excel in their professions but also safeguard their personal wellbeing and financial future in an increasingly digital society.” 

Through initiatives like the Empowering Financial Futures workshop, APU continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting the overall welfare and long-term success of its students, preparing them not only for professional achievement but also for responsible participation in the digital economy and society at large.