Federation Part Of International Skill Network
26 March 2010
The Industry Training Federation is a founding member of a new international coalition aimed at getting industry to
engage more with education.
The International Network of Sector Skills Organisations (INSSO) was launched in
London yesterday (Thursday 25 March, UK time) at the British Council’s Going Global Conference. The conference is attended by more than 1200 leaders and decision makers in the education and training
sector.
Mr Baker presented the Federation’s vision for tertiary education provision to better match the demand from industry at
a conference workshop.
“The structure of industry training in New Zealand attracts a lot of interest from the international vocational
education and training sector because of the formal interface between industry and the government through Industry
Training Organisations.
“My presentation to the conference was part of an international workshop with
colleagues from Canada and the UK looking at the role of sector based organisations in overcoming skills gaps.
“We have also joined with other organisations from Australia, the Netherlands and Pakistan to form INSSO, which will
provide a valuable opportunity to share ideas on how education and training can better meet the needs of industry.
“New Zealand’s small population and geographic isolation means we have to be extra smart in the way we utilise the
talents of people. Skill development for both individuals and across industries is critical. We relish the opportunity
to learn from others and share good practice models that we have developed in integrating the needs of industry with the
tertiary education and training sector.”
ENDS