TVET and Current Development Trends Discussed at BRICS International Municipal Forum

In late August 2024, a session titled “Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in BRICS Regions: Institutional Landscape and Current Development Trends” was held in Moscow as part of the BRICS International Municipal Forum 2024. Organised by HSE University, the session brought together experts to discuss the unique characteristics of national TVET systems in BRICS countries, current developmental priorities, and opportunities for sharing best practices.

The discussion featured experts from Russia, India, and China:

• Vera Maltseva, Director of the Centre for Vocational Education and Skills Development at HSE University’s Institute of Education;

• Li Jun, Associate Professor at Tongji University’s Institute of Vocational Education (China);

• Santosh Mehrotra, Visiting Professor at the University of Bath (UK);

• Marina Nevskaya, Head of the International Partnership Development Department for Secondary Vocational Education at Institute of Vocational Education Development.

The session was coordinated by HSE University’s Institute of Education.
Vera Maltseva, the session’s moderator, highlighted TVET’s critical role in building human capital and workforce capacity across BRICS nations. “The dynamic development of TVET, which is responsible for training and upskilling qualified professionals, is vital for economic growth and social stability in BRICS countries. While the historical contexts of TVET development in China, India, and Russia differ, this forum marks the beginning of collaborative discussions to advance this sector,” she stated.

 

Marina Nevskaya opened the session with a keynote presentation, providing a comprehensive overview of institutional-level TVET development strategies. She outlined the distinct features of national education systems in BRICS countries and highlighted recent reforms implemented by their governments.

 

Santosh Mehrotra focused on mutual learning opportunities among Russia, India, and China in TVET development. He explained how India has built its skills and qualifications ecosystem, the role of industry and labour market engagement in education, and potential reforms to strengthen vocational education in the country.

 

Li Jun detailed China’s TVET system and emerging trends, noting the growing integration between general education, higher education, and TVET. He also emphasised the expansion of international cooperation and TVET exports as key priorities.

Vera Maltseva concluded the session by outlining TVET development trends in Russia, supported by longitudinal data on youth educational and career pathways. She called for continued collaboration, proposing joint efforts to produce analytical reports and a collaborative expert article involving international organisations.

The session concluded with participants agreeing to deepen cooperation and engage international stakeholders in developing evidence-based policy materials. In addition, the speakers discussed the possibility of publishing a joint expert article.