Developing students’ career aspirations and decision-making capacities has become increasingly critical in the context of rapidly evolving high-productivity industries. In Malaysia, secondary school students often demonstrate limited awareness, fragmented information, and low engagement with career pathways linked to high-value economic sectors, resulting in indecision and misalignment between education and labour market needs. This study presents the design and implementation of a Behavioural Insights–based career intervention aimed at enhancing student engagement and informed career decision-making in high-productivity industries. The intervention was conducted with secondary school students through a structured programme incorporating career exposure, self-reflection activities, guided group discussions, and decision-making exercises. Drawing on principles of behavioural insights, the programme was designed to address cognitive biases, limited information processing, and motivational barriers that influence career choices. Data were collected using pre- and post-intervention measures focusing on students’ career awareness, engagement levels, and clarity of career intentions. Findings indicate a positive shift in students’ understanding of high-productivity industries, increased engagement in career exploration activities, and improved confidence in making career-related decisions. Participants demonstrated greater alignment between self-identified strengths and potential career pathways, suggesting the effectiveness of structured behavioural interventions in supporting adolescent career development. This study contributes to educational psychology and career guidance literature by highlighting the role of behavioural insights in designing scalable, school-based career interventions. The findings offer practical implications for educators, counsellors, and policymakers seeking to strengthen career readiness and human capital development through early, evidence-informed engagement strategies.

Authors:
Shahlan Surat, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia
Muhammad Syawal Amran, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Malaysia
Faridah Mydin Kutty, National University of Malaysia (UKM), Malaysia

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Shahlan Surat is a University Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia in Malaysia

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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