The Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) and the National Institute of Workforce Development (INDMO) in Timor-Leste signed a new partnership agreement on 8 March that will see greater collaboration to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems, and support skills development training for Timorese citizens.

The partnership between APTC and INDMO, which is the national qualifications authority and TVET regulator in Timor-Leste, will contribute to improved employment outcomes for TVET graduates both nationally and internationally, improved TVET institutional capability, as well as increased advocacy for TVET and skills development.  

It will also focus on labour mobility opportunities in Timor-Leste and overseas, recognition of selected Timorese qualifications abroad, building the capacity of TVET trainers and assessors to deliver national qualifications, and raising the profile of TVET as a viable career path for Timorese graduates.

Speaking at the signing, Sra. Isabel Fernandes da Lima, Director of INDMO, said, “The goals and activities set out in this partnership framework are very much aligned with Timor-Leste’s efforts and APTC's objectives to provide the skills needed to face new challenges and opportunities in modern society.”

APTC Executive Director, Janelle Chapman, said the partnership with INDMO is an important milestone because it is APTC’s first partnership with an agency in Timor-Leste.

“APTC highly values INDMO as a respected partner with the influence and leverage to make positive and lasting change in the Timorese vocational training system,” said Ms Chapman.

“Combined with APTC’s resources and experience in supporting the development of TVET qualifications and institutions throughout the region, I am sure this partnership will achieve long-term benefits for the TVET system in Timor-Leste.”

She added that the partnership would go a long way in supporting a future-focused and innovative TVET training system for domestic and international labour markets in line with the priorities of the Government of Timor-Leste.

As Australia’s flagship TVET investment in Timor-Leste and the Pacific, APTC contributes to a skilled, inclusive and productive workforce for sustainable livelihoods.

Since 2007, APTC has trained over 17,000 individuals and is working closely with national training providers, employers and key stakeholders to strengthen the quality and relevance of TVET across the region.