Recognizing CPSC’s role in the development of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the Asia-Pacific region, the Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE) has invited the CPSC Director General Dr. Ramhari Lamichhane to be a part of their National Conference as one of the Keynote Speakers. The event was conducted online via Zoom and YouTube live streaming from March 26-26, 2021.

With the title “Transforming Vocational Education and Training for Excellence: Perspective and Challenges”, this year’s National Conference aims to provide insights to key TVET stakeholders on the future trends in workforce development, be a platform for experience-sharing of innovative practices on excellence in VET systems, and elucidate different strategies and approaches towards the successful diffusion of excellence within TVET systems. The event was attended by officials from different national and international organizations and ministries, VET educators and administrators, policy makers, students, researchers, academic professionals, experts, practitioners, and representatives of Sector Skill Councils.

From L-R: Dr. V.S. Mehrotra (Professor, PSSCIVE and Master of Ceremonies); Dr. Rajesh P. Khambayat (Joint Director, PSSCIVE); Dr. P. Veeraiah (Conference Coordinator, PSSCIVE), and Mr. A. Palanivel (Associate Professor, PSSCIVE)

During his presentation on “Fostering 21st Century Skills to Address TVET Needs”, Dr. Lamichhane put focus on the huge potential of TVET in driving socio-economic development. However, he pointed out that in order to fully utilize this, 21st century skills have to be incorporated in the curriculum. Learning and innovation, ICT and media, as well as life and career skills are some sets he identified that may be infused with TVET in order to ensure the global readiness and competitiveness of TVET graduates.

Dr. Ramhari Lamichhane presenting his paper on “Fostering 21st Century Skills to Address TVET Needs”

Joining Dr. Lamichhane in the session is Dr. Steven Mckee, President Emeritus of Worlddidac and former President of Labtech International, Ltd., with Prof. N.K. Ambasht, former Chairperson of the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) India as the Moderator.

Dr. Steven McKee

Notable speakers and guests at the Inaugural Program of the National Conference include Ms. Soo-Hyang Choi, Director of UNESCO-UNEVOC International Center (through a recorded Special Address); Dr. Sridhar Srivastava, Director of the National Council of Educational Research and Traning (NCERT), and Dr. C. Thangaraj, Director of NITTTR Bhopal.

UNESCO-UNEVOC International Center Director Ms. Soo-Hyang Choi