On April 12, 2022, the Asia Pacific Accreditation and Certification Commission (APACC) hosted its first Focal Agencies’ Meeting via Zoom. Albeit virtually, respective National Coordinators for Accreditation (NCAs), APACC Special Officers, TVET Agency Executives, TVET Experts, and Quality Assurance Officials, were convened to present their national TVET/quality assurance systems and status updates and share benefits for APACC-accredited institutions initiated by their countries. The nine countries represented in the meeting were Fiji, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Philippines, Thailand, and Timor Leste.
APACC President, Prof. G.L.D. Wickramasinghe, giving his welcome remarks
The meeting was graced by the presence of CPSC Director General and APACC President, Prof. G.L.D. Wickramasinghe who delivered his welcome remarks as the Chairperson of the meeting. He then gave a brief APACC overview and status report. During the meeting, the status of the Memorandum of Understanding with each country was also reviewed and status updates were provided. Afterward, country representatives were given ample time to share their respective presentations on updates in the TVET/quality assurance system and their country-initiated benefits for APACC accredited institutions. Subsequently, the floor was opened for discussion on areas for collaboration and suggestions for APACC’s further improvement of its services.
It was a fruitful learning avenue for all to inspire and be motivated by each others' strategies in continuously promoting APACC and implementing quality management systems in the TVET sector. Representatives expressed their willingness to continue their cooperation and some suggestions for further improving APACC services were raised. Prof. Wickramasinghe ended the meeting with a hopeful note for everyone’s continuous support to achieve the shared goals toward TVET advancement.
In an effort to develop stronger partnerships and linkages with member governments, boost awareness, and encourage support for APACC activities for the benefit of TVET stakeholders, APACC is planning to conduct meetings with focal agencies biennially or at least once every two years.
