Global skills and mobility challenges and possibilities for VET: a cross-border cross- sectoral case study

Abstract

The complex interplay of technological advances, global demographic trends and macroeconomic forces has seen the emergence of global markets, economies, supply chains and labour markets.The use of skilled migration policy and initiatives for many countries feeling the effects of aging populations and skill shortages adds another dimension to this complex environment. These macro trends are impacting upon the provision of technical vocational education and training (TVET) and created a growing need for TVET educators, curriculum and ultimately TVET graduates to have global perspectives and competencies and international mobility skill sets.Another trend impacting on TVET is the increasing internationalisation of tertiary education. In response to the trade of skilled workers, nations such as the Philippines are adapting the delivery of higher education courses to include cross-border qualifications to produce a globally-ready workforce.The paper presents a case study of a cross-border, cross-sectoral alliance between Australia and the Philippines to highlight some of the possibilities. The paper will explore an array of issues and the challenges and possibilities these present for a globally responsive and sustainable TVET system.skills migration, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), cross-border, age of migration