ESC discussion calls for building vocational education

AMMAN — The Economic and Social Council (ESC) on Monday discussed labour market trends and challenges, employment rates, and vocational and technical education as part of its sessions on the State of the Country in 2021. 

Labour Minister Nayef Estetieh noted that the task of the ministry is to organise the labour market, draft legislation and unify efforts. He noted that educational outcomes’ “lack of conformity” with the market necessitates solutions, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

He also referred to the importance of engaging the private sector with the Vocational Training Corporation, according to the requirements of the market, in addition to defining market needs through the concerned institutions.

ESC Secretary General Mitri Mdanat highlighted the importance of reaching recommendations aimed to alleviate unemployment, adding that despite the government’s efforts and plans, the unemployment rates are still high, especially among women.

Labour Ministry Secretary General Farouq Hadidi suggested transitioning some existing universities into technical universities, as a solution to develop the vocational and technical education sector.

Kholoud Halahleh, coordinator of educational policies at the ESC, presented recommendations that considered the labour market, employment, and vocational and technical education a “matter of national and social security”.