Australia, Philippines push pact on skills training and vocational education
Australia and the Philippines are moving closer to finalizing an agreement that would expand vocational education and training opportunities for Filipinos.
Australian Assistant Minister Matt Thistlethwaite said the proposed partnership will take the form of a memorandum of understanding between the South Australian government and the Department of Education.
The announcement was made during the 5th Southeast Asia Business Exchange transnational education and upskilling mission held in Pasay City, where Thistlethwaite led a delegation of 25 Australian education providers.
He noted that the Philippine government’s push to upskill its workforce aligns with Australia’s goal of strengthening education partnerships in Southeast Asia. The collaboration aims to connect Filipino learners with Australian universities and vocational training institutions.
The initiative also supports Australia’s broader 2040 Southeast Asia Economic Strategy, which prioritizes education, skills development, and technical cooperation across the region.
Thistlethwaite highlighted that Australia’s aging population and workforce shortages present opportunities for Filipinos with the right skills and training to access employment abroad.
In addition to education, the Australian delegation is exploring expanded cooperation with the Philippines in key sectors such as renewable energy, the digital economy, infrastructure, and agriculture.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR
