ADB helps improve quality of vocational education in VN
VGP – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a US$78 million aid package to help Vietnamese laborers meet with the demands of the market through enhancing the quality of vocational education institutions throughout the country.
 |
|
Illustration photo |
In addition, a nonrefundable US$3 million aid, offered by the Japanese government, will support investments in vocational education via strengthening the training quality of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving, and development of short-term skills based on the needs of women and young people in disadvantaged communities.
According to the ADB, Viet Nam has maintained a steady economic growth momentum in recent years, becoming one of the fastest growing economies in Southeast Asia.
However, the country is currently facing a shortage of skilled labor and lower labor productivity than its Southeast Asian neighbors. For example, Viet Nam’s labor force was only equal to 7.5% of Singapore and 17% of Malaysia in 2015.
A recent survey by the Viet Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industry found that Vietnamese graduates from vocational education institutions often lack specialised skills and other soft skills.
Sakiko Tanaka, ADB’s senior social expert, said: “With over 60% of the population aged under 35, Viet Nam has the potential to achieve high and sustainable economic growth. In order to help realise that potential, the ADB project aims to ensure that the Vietnamese workforce has the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance competitiveness and productivity, thus meeting the demands of the global market”.
She added that the project is expected to benefit about 75,000 students by improving the teaching and learning environment. At least 2,500 adults and teens outside the school will have the chance to attend short-term skill training courses to help them find higher-paid jobs or start their own business.
By Vien Nhu
