THE Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology is offering scholarships to Malaysians to study dental technology and material science.

Its Research and Development Dean, Professor Stenver Lin said 60 places were being offered to eligible Malaysians interested in pursuing the two-year diploma course to become dental technologists.

“The course is for those who are keen on learning about equipment, products, services and technology in the oral health industry.

Happy smiles: Dr Mah (centre) receiving a souvenir from Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology dean of research and development professor Dr Stenver Lin (right). Looking on is the university’s assistant professor Hsi- Chen Lin.

“The job scope of a dental technologist includes making dentures, crowns, bridges and dental braces to help patients improve the appearance of their teeth,” Lin told reporters in Ipoh last Thursday.

Lin said the university had 30 years experience in the field and wanted to encourage more people to take up the course, adding that dental technologists had good career prospects.

“We initially reserved 30 places for Malaysian students but following a meeting with Perak Health Committee chairman Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, we agreed to his request to offer 60 places instead.

“Those interested will not have to pay for the course, which will be conducted in Mandarin, but they will have to fork out for their own lodging, food and other expenses.

“Upon graduation, they can apply for a US$100,000 loan (RM313,000) offered by the university to set up their own dental laboratory in Malaysia,” Lin added.

Dr Mah, who was also present, said to his knowledge, only a handful of universities in Malaysia offered such courses.

“We have seen great transformation in products in the oral health industry, for example, dental implants.

“We need more dental technologists in the country and I hope people will take up this opportunity to study the course for free,” he added.

Applicants must be aged between 18 and 40, and have an SPM certificate.

Those interested should call 012-5055226 (Ben Tang Ban Chuan) or 019-5564378 (Peter Chan).

-The Star-