Getting Tertiary Education Policy Right Needs A Tripartite Approach

Major reforms underway across the skills training and higher education sectors seek to give providers a clear role in driving economic growth, helping more people into the workforce, and improving workforce productivity, the latter required to increase real wages. A tripartite approach, involving collaboration between government, industry, and unions, is essential in framing policies that support quality outcomes for students in skills training and higher education.

It goes without saying that the role of the Australian, state and territory governments cannot be understated. Government needs to act as a facilitator and regulator, ensuring that the tertiary education sector aligns with national economic goals and industry needs. Government policies should incentivise innovation in teaching methodologies and curriculum development, integrating contemporary skills and knowledge that are in high demand. Additionally, funding and regulatory support for research and development in educational technologies can significantly enhance the learning experience and outcomes. Importantly, government plays a key leadership role in developing the programs to improve access to skills training and higher education key population cohorts including Indigenous Australians, the long-term unemployed and those who had sadly viewed tertiary education as unobtainable.

The role of industry and unions is equally vital. These groups possess firsthand knowledge of the skills required in the workforce and are in a unique position to forecast future industry trends. By collaborating with the ten new Jobs and Skills Councils (JSCs), they can ensure that courses are tailored to meet real-world requirements, thereby increasing students' employability. Internships, apprenticeships (including degree-level apprenticeships), and industry-sponsored projects can provide students with valuable hands-on experience, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Both independent Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and higher education providers must leverage their ability to be dynamic and responsive to change. Their expertise ensures that programs are delivered in a context that’s not only of high quality and academically rigorous but also relevant to evolving industry needs. This involves a shift to a more practical, problem-solving approach that encourages critical thinking and innovation. Collaboration with industry experts can bring practical insights into the classroom, enriching the learning experience.

This tripartite approach also ensures inclusive and equitable access to skills training and higher education. Governments can set frameworks to ensure that tertiary education is accessible to all segments of society, thus fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. Industry input can help identify and close skill gaps in underrepresented communities, and across remote, rutal and regional Australia, contributing to a more equitable society by addressing the causes of entrenched disadvantage.

The Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) is keen to ensure that this collaboration leads to the creation of a continuous learning ecosystem where tertiary education does not end with a student's attainment of a single qualification. Upskilling and reskilling become integral parts of an individual’s career journey, where the role of the skills training and higher education sectors in supporting a culture of lifelong learning is not only defined, but supported by government, industry and unions.

A tripartite approach to framing policies for the skills training and higher education sectors is beneficial and necessary for supporting a growing economy. It fosters a tertiary education system that is responsive to industry needs, encourages innovation, and ensures inclusivity. This collaborative model paves the way for a workforce that is adaptable, skilled, and ready to meet the challenges of the future.

I’m looking forward to conversations on this at the upcoming ITEC24 Conference on the Gold Coast over 5-7 June 2024, I look forward to seeing you there.

ITECA Membership – It’s a great time to get involved.

Troy Williams, ITECA Chief Executive

#SkillsTraining #VocationalTraining #VocationalEducation #HigherEducation

This was initially posted as the ITECA National Monday Update on 4 March 2024. www.iteca.edu.au