In a significant step towards strengthening vocational education and aligning it with labour market needs, the Secretariat of the National Training Committee of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training organized a meeting between the National Training Board (NTB)’s Secretary and 12 Provincial Training Boards (PTBs) on April 2, 2024. The meeting, supported by the Skills Development Program (SDP) of Swiss Development Partners, aimed to foster collaboration and share best practices among the participating provinces.
Presiding over the meeting was Hing Sideth, Delegate of the Royal Government, Director General of the General Department of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (OECD), and Chairman of the National Training Board (NTB)’s Secretary and Executive Committee. The gathering brought together 45 participants, including vice-chairmen of the Provincial Training Committees, representatives from six specialized departments, a Swiss representative, and deputy chairs of the Secretariats from 12 Provincial Training Committees, representing the provinces of Kratie, Stung Treng, Preah Vihear, Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri, Kampong Chhnang, Pursat, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Oddar Meanchey, Pailin, and Koh Kong.
The meeting provided a platform to evaluate the past performance of the Provincial Training Committees and facilitate the exchange of successful experiences among participants to drive growth in vocational education. A key objective is to enroll 1.5 million young people from disadvantaged and vulnerable families in vocational and technical training programs, ensuring they are equipped with the skills needed to meet current and future labour market demands at both provincial and national levels. The meeting also sought to align vocational education with national education policies, emphasizing the importance of technical and vocational training.
The Provincial Training Committees play a crucial role as collaborative coordination mechanisms within sub-national administrations. They provide guidance, develop strategies, address challenges, disseminate national strategic plans, and compile educational reports related to technical and vocational training. By working closely with stakeholders and the private sector, these committees strive to enhance the quality and effectiveness of education and training for human resources in their respective provinces, ensuring alignment with labour market needs and contributing to national social and economic development.
This meeting marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen vocational education in Cambodia and bridge the gap between the skills of the workforce and the demands of the labour market. Through increased collaboration and the sharing of best practices, the National and Provincial Training Boards are paving the way for a brighter future, empowering young people with the skills they need to succeed and drive the nation’s economic growth.
