Online Learning for Gig Workers

Did you know that a record-breaking 3 million Malaysians (up by 600,000 from 2021) are now actively participating in the gig economy? More young people are choosing not to go to university and are instead becoming e-hailing workers straight after completing secondary school.

They want the flexibility and chance to make quick money, instead of a 4-year university path with uncertain future job security. If you ask them, they might say, “We don’t need higher education to earn a high income.”

Why is e-hailing so appealing?

• Early earners:For young Malaysians, e-hailing presents an enticing opportunity to enter the workforce and start earning an income immediately after completing secondary school. Unlike traditional career paths that often require a degree, e-hailing workers can use their driving skills and personal vehicles to generate income.
• Work-life balance:They enjoy the flexibility to work when and where it suits them, avoiding the rigid structure of a traditional 9-to-5 job. E-hailing workers can create their own schedules and work when it best fits their lifestyle, whether it’s during peak hours, evenings, weekends, or part-time. They can earn an income while still having the freedom to pursue other interests, hobbies, or obligations outside of work.

But is it all good?

• Lack of Benefits:While traditional employees often enjoy benefits like medical leave, contributions to retirement savings through the Employee Provident Fund (EPF), and coverage for workplace injuries through Socso, e-hailing workers do not have access to these benefits.
• Lack of Stability:The income flow is inconsistent. Imagine you’re working as an e-hailing driver. Some days, you might have lots of passengers requesting rides, and you’re making good money. But other days, it might be quieter, with fewer people needing rides. This inconsistency in the number of passengers means your income can vary a lot from day to day. This inconsistency can make it tricky to budget, plan for your expenses, and manage their finances.

Finding Solutions

• Flexible Learning:Some educational institutions offer online programmes designed for working adults. These programmes allow individuals to study anytime, anywhere, often at their own pace. Digital materials and online assessments eliminate the need for in-person classes. Additionally, some institutions offer instalment plans for financial convenience.

Example: OUM

OUM offers more than 50 programmes in high-demand fields like early childhood education, occupational safety and health, and psychology. These are fully online, which means that e-hailing workers can attend classes, take part in discussions, submit assignments and even sit for exams from the comfort of their home or wherever they may be.

Continuous education is crucial for career advancement. Online learning allows individuals to further their studies while maintaining their current work schedule.