Royal Thai Embassy in Vienna invited the Thai-Austrian Technical College (TATC) delegation to Austria to move forward the cooperation in vocational education

Royal Thai Embassy in Vienna invited the Thai-Austrian Technical College (TATC) delegation to Austria to move forward the cooperation in vocational education

            On 19 – 22 September 2023, the Royal Thai Embassy in Vienna invited Mrs. Orathai Yothingrungrueang Sudsanguan, Director of the Thai-Austrian Technical College (TATC), Sattahip District, Chonburi, and the lecturers to visit the Republic of Austria with the objective to proceed the cooperation in vocational education between the two countries. This is in accordance with the “Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Vocational Education in Work-Based Training” jointly signed by the Ministry of Education of Thailand and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy of Austria in November 2022.

            During the visit, a representative of the Royal Thai Embassy and the TACT delegation had a fruitful discussion with the representatives of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy. Both sides explored possible approaches in applying Austria’s vocational education model in Thailand under the policy towards work-based training education.

            The Thai delegates also made a two-day visit to the city of Linz. During which they met with the representatives of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO), Upper Austria. The delegation also visited the Institute for Economic Promotion (WIFI), a leading institution in dual academy program for further education. Moreover, they visited to the vocational school no. 5 in Linz and the training centers of SIEMENS and ÖBB Infrastructure to witness vast experiences of Austria on work-based training education.

            The visit of the TACT delegation to Austria was a part of the Royal Thai Embassy’s efforts in strengthening the Thai-Austrian cooperation in vocational education. The TACT commended the advancement of vocational education in Austria and was determined to enhance their cooperation with the Austrian side. In this regard, the TACT and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Education of Austria agreed to launch an apprenticeship program in work-based training between the TACT and Austrian companies based in Thailand. Under this program, the students will be provided necessary skills for the vocation. This cooperation will also be beneficial for the Austrian companies as the program is an addition opportunity to accommodate the increasing demand on skilled workers.