In this blog, we’d like to expand on this and discuss some of the recent developments in the VET sector.
New Areas of Study
5G is the fifth generation of global cellular wireless network that powers every digital device and will affect almost every industry on the planet. But it will be a bigger leap in wireless computing power than any of the other G’s before it, with experts saying that not only will it be approximately 100 times faster than current 4G networks, but it will also be more reliable. This means 5G qualifications will be important and in demand.
Reports estimate that the telecommunications industry will see a massive surge in 5G careers in the next 10 to 20 years and that by 2035 5G technology will be worth $13.2 trillion, supporting 22.3 million jobs worldwide.
In response to this, the Australian Industry and Skills Committee (AISC) have endorsed two skill sets to support the rollout of cellular wireless networks, including 5G:
- ICTSS00115 XG Cellular Network Infrastructure Rollout Skill Set
- ICTSS00116 XG Cellular Network Implementation Skill Set
These compliment the ICT skill sets that were endorsed last July and will provide workers with the necessary skills for jobs in emerging technologies.
An interpretation guide that will support these skill sets has also been developed. It provides guidance for delivering the units of competency and specific skill and knowledge requirements for rolling out the 5G network. This interpretation guide will be available soon.
NCVER Reports
The NCVER reports on VET qualification completion rates have been published. This includes the first observed actual completion rates for VET qualifications that commenced in 2015. Completion rates for subsequent years are projected.
The projected completion rates are likely overstated due to the high proportion of continuing students in the forecast calculations. Projections become more realistic as time passes as more records reach their final state of “completed” or “discontinued”.
The good news? Completion rates are on the rise. And it seems the higher the level of education, the higher the completion rate.
The Shape of Australia’s post COVID-19 Workforce
The National Skills Commission (NSC) has released their new report that analyses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the labour market and profiles Australia’s resilient occupations framework.
The report details that although the labour market took a big hit due to the pandemic, it is starting to recover. Between March and May 2020 employment fell sharply by 6.7% (871,6000 jobs were lost), but has rebounded strongly, increasing 5.3% (648,5000 jobs gained) between May and October.
In addition, the report gives insights about resilient occupations, ranking the relative strength of 358 occupations and their likely prospects as the economy continues to recover from the initial impact of the pandemic. Three industries are responsible for more than half the employment in the top third of resilient occupations: Health Care and Social Assistance, Construction, and Education and Training.
It’s important to remember how quickly things can change and how all industries must work proactively to remain adaptable. Technology is advancing rapidly, and industries need to keep up. Workers also need to stay relevant and up-to-date in order to remain competitive.
However, these recent developments all point toward the same thing; the important role vocational education and training plays in our society.
Source:
https://www.aisc.net.au/hub/two-skill-sets-support-5g-cellular-network-%E2%80%93-9-december-2020
https://www.qualcomm.com/media/documents/files/ihs-5g-economic-impact-study-2019.pdf
https://www.nationalskillscommission.gov.au/shape-australias-post-covid-19-workforce
