The ACT Government will today release a discussion paper as part of its review into the governance arrangements of the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT), marking an important step in shaping the future of public vocational education and training in the ACT.
Minister for Skills, Training and Industrial Relations, Michael Pettersson, said the review would focus on ensuring CIT remains well placed to deliver for students, industry and the broader Canberra community.
"CIT is the ACT's largest vocational education and training provider and our sole public TAFE. It excels in teaching and learning and plays a critical role in developing the skilled workforce our economy relies on," Minister Pettersson said.
"CIT has been central to workforce development in Canberra for almost a century. Every day, dedicated educators and support staff are helping people gain the skills they need to build successful careers, and we owe it to them and their students to ensure CIT has the governance framework it needs to thrive.
The discussion paper examines governance arrangements across public vocational education providers in Australia and considers what structures, oversight and accountability mechanisms will best support public VET provision in the ACT into the future.
The review will be forward-looking, with a focus on identifying opportunities for the future, including considering CIT's role within an increasingly connected tertiary education sector.
"We are seeing stronger collaboration between vocational education and higher education across Australia, supported through reforms under the National Skills Agreement and the broader national conversation around tertiary harmonisation.
"There is no shortage of ideas being put forward about what the future of CIT should look like. I welcome the strong interest we have seen from across our community in making CIT the best it can be." Minister Pettersson said.
"But we need to make sure that whatever path we choose is in the best interests of CIT staff, students, and the outcomes CIT delivers for our entire community"
As part of the review process, the ACT Government has written to stakeholders including interstate ministers, tertiary education institutions, VET bodies, unions, and student representatives, inviting their participation.
Stakeholders are invited to provide submissions in response to the discussion paper and officials will meet with stakeholders over coming months. A listening report will then be prepared, followed by the establishment of an expert panel on vocational education and governance to develop and assess potential governance models for CIT.
In recognition of the ACT Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Economics, Industry and Recreation inquiry into CIT governance arrangements, the Government will ensure the Standing Committee's recommendations are considered alongside stakeholder feedback as the review progresses.
