The peak body representing independent skills training and higher education providers, the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA), has congratulated Steve Whan on his appointment as Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education.
“As the peak body representing independent skills training providers across New South Wales, we congratulate Mr Whan on his appointment and we look forward to working with him,” said Troy Williams, ITECA Chief Executive.
There are around 1,208 independent Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) across New South Wales that support 85.5% of the 1,255,445 students in skills training across the state.
Independent RTOs deliver the lion’s share of higher level and complex qualifications, including 62.2% of diploma and higher qualifications, plus 57.5% of Certificate IV qualifications.
“The government’s own data shows that New South Wales couldn’t properly skill, reskill and upskill its workforce without the contribution of independent RTOs with a commitment to quality,” Mr Williams said.
The Minister will inherit a review of the state’s vocational education and training sector. This review is focused on identifying the strengths, gaps and opportunities for improvement in skills development and training, to support our students and workforce.
“The significant contribution of independent RTOs to the skilling, upskilling and reskilling of the New South Wales workforce should be a determinant factor that frames the recommendation arising from the review,” Mr Williams said.
