A discussion paper exploring the theme ‘Past informing the future’ has been released today by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), in preparation for the 30th National Vocational Education and Training (VET) Research Conference ‘No Frills’, to be held online next week from 7-9 July.
Simon Walker, Managing Director, NCVER, said that the conference will explore how the VET landscape has evolved over the last 30 years and more recently, the impact of COVID-19 on how we learn, work and live.
"To kick off conference discussions, the paper examines past reforms aimed at increasing VET’s relevance and accessibility, and improved data to enhance insights into the sector and provide better information for students and industry. It also explores some of the enduring issues that continue to trouble VET’s stakeholders, including VET’s purpose, national harmonisation, marketisation, and quality,” Mr Walker said.
Since 1992, NCVER’s annual mid-year conference has attracted leading researchers, industry experts and vocational education and training (VET) practitioners from across Australia and overseas.
‘No Frills’ starts at 10.30am on Wednesday 7 July with an opening address from The Hon Stuart Robert MP, Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business.
The Minister will be followed by international keynote Dr Borhene Chakroun, from UNESCO-HQ in Paris. Dr Chakroun will present Reading the past, writing the future: skills for recovery and reimagining work and life.
On Thursday 8 July at 10.30am, well-known demographer and social researcher at the ANU Centre for Social Research and Methods, Dr Liz Allen, will share her personal story about the transformative nature of education.
“Education and training can improve the lives and wellbeing of individuals and communities. Ensuring opportunities for all, regardless of the socioeconomic circumstances of individuals, has the power to broaden Australia's potential,” Dr Allen said.
At 2.45pm on Friday 9 July, National Skills Commissioner Adam Boyton will speak on a topic of interest to many: The National Skills Commission – Skills needs, the labour market and VET pricing and performance.
Mr Boyton said, “Through developing new tools and models of analysing data, such as the Australian Skills Classification, which provides skills profiles for some 600 occupations, the NSC is contributing to a labour market that more effectively aligns skills needs with education and training.”
The discussion paper Past informing the future is available at https://www.ncver.edu.au/publications
The comprehensive ‘No Frills’ program features a range of live and pre-recorded content, including over 40 presentations, live Q&A talk shows, a focus session plus ample networking opportunities. Registration is still open at www.ncver.edu.au/nofrills2021
Enquiries and interviews: Deanne Loan M: 0413 523 691 E: deanneloan@ncver.edu.au
About NCVER: we are the main provider of research, statistics and data on Australia’s VET sector. Our services help promote better understanding of VET and assist policy-makers, practitioners, industry, training providers, and students to make informed decisions.
This work has been produced by NCVER on behalf of the Australian Government and state and territory governments, with funding provided through the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment.