Member states of the BRICS bloc are intensifying efforts to Strengthen cooperation in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), recognising its pivotal role in promoting sustainable socio-economic development.
The Brazilian Ministry of Education recently hosted a meeting of the BRICS TVET Cooperation Alliance (BRICS TCA), where discussions focused on expanding access to education, fostering innovation, and aligning training with skills currently in demand in the global labour market.
The meeting brought together officials from the education ministries of BRICS countries, representatives of scientific institutions, and international organisations. Participants exchanged insights on the implementation of vocational education programmes and agreed on key areas for future collaboration.
Francisco Figueiredo, Special Adviser to Brazil’s Minister of Education, highlighted the strategic importance of the BRICS platform in facilitating policy exchange and establishing direct links between educational institutions across member states.
Marcelo Bregagnoli, State Secretary for Technological and Professional Education at Brazil’s Ministry of Education, noted a significant rise in enrolment figures. Citing the 2024 census, he stated that over 2.5 million students are currently enrolled in secondary vocational education programmes, with more than 1.5 million attending public institutions.
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Delegates identified three main priority areas: improving the quality and accessibility of education for young people, reinforcing the role of vocational training in economic development, and integrating innovative technologies into the educational system.
Chinese representative Zhai Jinming praised the BRICS TCA for becoming a crucial mechanism for deepening cooperation in vocational education. He expressed optimism about the expansion of student and teacher exchanges, as well as joint research and training initiatives.
The meeting also featured contributions from representatives of Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates, who reiterated their commitment to shared progress in vocational education and skills development.
