Just in case the Accord does not make it, NSW Labor has a plan
The State Government proposes to engage the State’s universities with the training system, a core idea of the Commonwealth University’s Accord.
“If the recognition of prior learning is easily, consistently and clearly applied, pathways between VET and higher education can better target skills needs, expand career opportunities and improve the student experience,” is the core message of a manifesto released Wednesday.
“Strengthening partnerships between our public education providers – universities, TAFE NSW, and schools – is critical to achieving our workforce and skills goals.”
It follows last month’s announcement by education shadow Sarah Henderson that a Coalition government will cancel key recommendations in the Accord.
If the Albanese Government is returned, the enabling Australian Tertiary Education Commission will start mid-year. But if the Coalition wins Federally, ATEC will be pronounced dead on arrival. However the Accord’s spirit will live on in NSW, with the State Skills Plan already in place, promising “flexible ways for people to re-skill and transition between different study and career pathways.”
The NSW VCs are on-side, with chair Alex Zelinsky (Uni Newcastle) stating, “by continuously evolving disciplines to reflect industry shifts and working closely with government and business, universities play a vital role in boosting productivity, diversifying the economy and creating new jobs.”
But what is in it for them?
“The government has promised to reduce its reliance on private consultancies, creating an opportunity to apply university research to complex policy challenges. Effective policies and services, based on the best evidence, will lift the public’s trust in both universities and the public sector,” is what.