The Ministry of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs and the British Council signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on vocational training cooperation for the next three years at a conference in Hanoi on September 30.

The conference, focusing on bilateral cooperation in education and training, was part of the UK Week in Vietnam .

Under the MoU, in 2013 and 2014, the General Department of Vocational Training, the Vietnam Coal and Mineral Industries Group and the UK National Skills Academy will pilot model to work out a set of national skill standards for the coal industry.

Concerned partiers will also organise policy seminars with the participation of representatives from the UK and East Asia on the building of skill councils, thus helping Vietnam implement its 2020 vocational training development strategy.

The two sides will share experience and organise a skills competition for young people.

According to delegates, Vietnam has many opportunities to develop vocational skills. One of the keys to success is to connect with other people from different countries, they said.

They also pointed out challenges Vietnam is facing in vocational training, including students’ lack of practical skills, a shortage of experienced teachers and trainers, and limitations in improving standards for skilled workers to reach the international standards.-VNA