In December 2012, DIISRTE hosted a delegation of six senior Government officers from the Thailand Professional Qualifications Institute (TPQI), a public organisation under the supervision of the Thai Prime Minister. The delegation was interested in learning about the Australian VET system, with particular focus on the policy around structure, governance arrangements and quality assurance.
VET in Thailand is a key area of education reform. One of the priority drivers for change is Thailand’s need to develop a more highly skilled, responsive labour market that meets industry needs. TPQI’s overall goal is to strengthen Thailand’s skills and competency training at a national level and prepare Thailand for the launch of the ASEAN Economic Community’s single regional common market of member countries in 2015.
The delegation’s visit supports the Australian Government’s mission to build international linkages and opportunities and create a globally connected education and training system.
The delegation attended a four day program which included visits and presentations from DIISRTE, a visit to the Canberra Institute of Technology, meetings with the NSW Government to discuss VET from the State Government perspective and a visit to Melbourne to meet with the National Skills Standards Council, VETASSESS, Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) and several Industry Skills Councils.
The delegation was very appreciative of the program and for DIISRTE’s support for their visit. The TPQI Director General stated that, “the TPQI team gained valuable experiences and in depth knowledge on the Australian qualification system. That is very helpful in further developing our institute.”
The visit was funded by the Thai Government and was supported by AEI Bangkok, DIISRTE National Office, NSW State Government, ASQA, VETASSESS and several ISC’s and Registered Training Organisations.
The TPQI delegation, the Thai Ambassador to Australia, and DIISRTE representatives.Back left to right: Symeon Collette (DIISRTE), Susan Bennett (DIISRTE), H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, (Thai Ambassador to Australia), Craig Robertson (DIISRTE).
Front left to right: Mirella Canziani (DIISRTE), Dr. Noppadol (Anthony) Piyatrapoomi (TPQI), Mr. Virachai Srikajon (TPQI), General Lertrat Ratanavanich (Lead, TPQI), Mrs. Anchalee Chanvanich (TPQI), Mr Suksom Sukasam (Thai Embassy, Canberra), Ms. Pornthip Veerachananan (TPQI), Ms. Omika Bunkan (TPQI).