The ASEAN Vocational Training Council (AVTC) is critical in promoting collaboration and fostering technical and vocational education training (TVET) among ASEAN member countries. This council provides a forum for ASEAN nations to collaborate and work towards common goals in the field of vocational education.
One of the AVTC’s primary goals is to harmonise TVET standards across ASEAN countries. The council hopes that by aligning standards, it will make it easier for skilled workers to move around the region. For example, they developed the ASEAN Common Competency Standards for various industries, ensuring that workers have consistent skills and knowledge across borders. This standardisation improves employability and promotes regional workforce mobility.
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The AVTC organises skill competitions to encourage excellence in vocational skills. The WorldSkills Asean Competition (WSAC) is an exciting event that brings talented vocational students and professionals from ASEAN countries together. Participants demonstrate their abilities in a variety of trades, including automotive, culinary arts, information technology and others. The WSAC provides a forum for participants to engage in friendly competition, skill exchange and networking. It is a vibrant showcase of the region’s vocational talent that inspires individuals to strive for excellence in their chosen fields.
The ASEAN Mutual Recognition Agreement for Skilled Labour (MRA) is another notable example. The AVTC established this framework to facilitate the recognition of skills and qualifications across member countries. It allows skilled workers’ competencies to be recognised, allowing for greater mobility and employment opportunities within the region. This recognition mechanism encourages vocational education graduates to look beyond their home countries for career opportunities, thereby contributing to the regional workforce.
The ASEAN Regional Policy Dialogue on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) facilitates the exchange of ideas, policies and best practices in TVET among ASEAN member countries. It encourages member states to collaborate and cooperate in order to improve the quality, relevance and inclusiveness of vocational education and training throughout the ASEAN region.
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Furthermore, the AVTC collaborates actively with international organisations such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in order to leverage global expertise and resources. Through these partnerships, the AVTC promotes innovative approaches to vocational training, investigates emerging trends and technologies and addresses common challenges faced by vocational education systems.
The AVTC initiatives reflect ASEAN member countries’ commitment to promote vocational education and training, thereby supporting the development of a skilled workforce. The council promotes excellence, encourages regional collaboration and contributes to the overall growth and prosperity of ASEAN nations by harmonising standards, organising skill competitions and investing in trainer training.
