Australia and Vietnam further partnership in Vocational Education and Training

Education and training ties between Australia and Vietnam will be strengthened following the signing on 25 January 2011 of an Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Vocational Education and Training by Vice-Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, Mr Nguyen Ngoc Phi and the Australian Ambassador, H.E. Mr Allaster Cox.

Bilateral ties between Australia and Vietnam have grown strongly over the past 38 years, particularly in the fields of education and training. In recent years, the prominence of Vocational Education and Training (VET) has grown in the relationship, through policy exchange, scholarships for Vietnamese students to undertake vocational courses in Australia and for Australian students undertaking practical vocational attachments in Vietnam.

Australia and Vietnam can both benefit from further expanding our close collaboration in Vocational Education and Training. Both countries require technical skills to modernise industries, increase productivity and attract investment. Effective vocational training can significantly increase employment opportunities and improve standards of living.

Vietnam and Australia are investing significantly to develop vocational systems and programs that will serve the needs of industries and encourage innovation. Australia looks forward to continuing to work with Vietnam as Australian vocational training systems undergo reform and respond to challenges.

The Australian VET system is renowned for its flexibility and responsiveness to the changing needs of industries. Australia has been particularly happy to support senior Vietnamese delegations to investigate Australian initiatives in vocational education and training.

The Australian Government looks forward to deepening our long-established education relationship with Vietnam through increased cooperation in Vocational Education and Training, both through the policy engagement and the increased mobility of students, educators and professionals.