KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 22

A two-day National Policy Dialogue on Nepal's Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector was held in Kathmandu on 20–21 November 2024 to discuss implementing a strategic plan aimed at aligning global practices with local needs.

The dialogue was organized by UNESCO in collaboration with the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT) and the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MoEST).

The dialogue brought together more than 100 key stakeholders, including Honorable members from National Planning Commission, secretary from MoEST, members of parliament and representatives from Nepal's education sector, private enterprises, employers, development partners, and donor organizations.

During the dialogue, Bidya Bhattarai, Minister for Education, Science, and Technology, emphasized the government's commitment to inclusive and equitable education, skills, and employment for all to realize the vision of a Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali, stating, 'We need to utilize local resources, create job markets, and connect the education system with TVET, and TVET with enterprises. The government should extend all the necessary support. Collaboration and coordination among all levels of government with CTEVT are key.'

Discussions focused on innovative approaches to sustainability, digital transformation, and private sector engagement. Participants also explored strategies to overcome local challenges, improve collaboration, and enhance access, equity, and quality in skills development. These efforts aim to prepare Nepal's workforce to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy, according to the press release issued by the UNESCO.

Emphasizing Nepal's TVET Sector Strategic Plan (2023–2032)-which prioritizes access, equity, quality, and governance-the dialogue covered critical themes, including Greening TVET, Digital Transformation, and 21st-Century Skills for Employability. These discussions aim to foster a skilled workforce that drives Nepal's socio-economic growth, the release further states.

'CTEVT extends its commitment to align its activities with TSSP implementation through quality, relevant and flexible TVET delivery,' said Er. Mahesh Bhattarai, Member Secretary, CTEVT emphasizing CTEVT's mission promoting TVET system to develop a competent workforce for national and international market needs.

The event, designed as a platform for collaboration, featured expert-led panel discussions, interactive group work, and Q&A sessions. Stakeholders assessed global and national TVET trends, identified challenges and opportunities, and exchanged ideas to strengthen the implementation of Nepal's strategic plan. They also explored strategies to enhance public-private partnerships, integrate greening TVET, and accelerate digital transformation.

As a key outcome of the dialogue, a policy recommendation note will be developed, outlining actionable steps to enhance the TVET sector. This note will provide clear guidance on improving implementation processes, integrating sustainable and digital practices, and strengthening private sector engagement.

The collaboration reaffirmed the commitment of UNESCO, MoEST and CTEVT to creating a competent, skilled, and competitive workforce in Nepal. It also underscored UNESCO-UNEVOC's dedication to empowering TVET leaders in Nepal with the knowledge and tools necessary to drive positive change within their institutions and beyond. As UNESCO's designated centre for TVET, UNESCO-UNEVOC supports UNESCO Member States in their efforts to strengthen and upgrade their TVET systems through innovative projects, capacity-building programmes and collaborative activities, the UNESCO said.

'Together, we have the power to drive meaningful change, ensuring that Nepal's TVET system is resilient and prepared to meet the needs of the future,' said Friedrich Huebler, Head of UNESCO-UNEVOC.

The National TVET Policy Dialogue marks a significant milestone in Nepal's concentrated efforts to transform its TVET sector. Alongside the policy recommendation note, participants gained valuable insights into global trends and actionable strategies to overcome challenges. They were encouraged to actively contribute to implementing the strategic roadmap and shaping a sustainable, inclusive future for all.