As the curtain rises on National Skills Week starting August 21, residents across New South Wales are urged to dive into the myriad opportunities that vocational education and training (VET) offer.
Under the theme “What are you looking for?”, the week-long event shines a spotlight on the dynamic educational and career prospects accessible through VET pathways.
Murat Dizdar, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, underscores the aim of Skills Week: to dispel outdated misconceptions surrounding vocational education opportunities. In a rapidly evolving job landscape, Dizdar emphasizes the pivotal role VET plays in future-proofing both established and emerging industries.
Dizdar emphasizes that while vocational education continues to underpin traditional trades, its significance extends to nascent sectors. He cites the example of the burgeoning clean energy domain, which is poised to generate promising employment prospects rooted in current trades.
Moreover, Dizdar notes that the distinction between university education and VET pathways is increasingly blurred. He champions vocational education as an equal partner in the tertiary sector, with a burgeoning future lying in enhanced collaboration between the two realms. Dizdar posits that the road to success is paved with multifaceted skills seamlessly interwoven in innovative ways.
Beyond bridging the education gap, Skills Week also serves as a pivotal platform to spotlight the School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) program within NSW public schools. Dizdar highlights the program’s impact in illuminating diverse career avenues for young individuals. The initiative’s success is underscored by the 9.5% increase in SBAT participation, defying the national trend.
The state of New South Wales stands as a vanguard in vocational education, boasting nearly 113,000 trainees and apprentices in training, surpassing all other states and territories.
During this significant week, Dizdar also pays homage to employers who guide students through their training, and the educators who impart world-class learning experiences. Now celebrating its 13th year, Skills Week shines a spotlight on the remarkable skills, talents, and potential career pathways of students, apprentices, trainees, and the extensive array of industries they contribute to.
National Skills Week takes place from 21 – 27 August, with a launch at the Parliament of NSW on 22 August.
For more information and examples of Skills initiatives in your area contact: mediaunit@det.nsw.edu.au
