Standing Committee on Employment, Education
and Workplace Relations
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Submission 79
Christopher P. Doube' Ph.D.
November 20 1997
RE: TAFE Courses
You may well recall my visits to you, both regarding Nulite Systems international
Pty. Limited, and more recently regarding TIEG Inc. The former is expanding
into International markets and the latter is working steadily at the issues
associated with Technology and Business Development. ( I will write further
about that in due course)
TAFE is a subject I have noticed lacking focus. I have visited the Advanced
Technology Centre at Lidcome, which is a fine facility, but I notice that
it is quite difficult to identify how to track down a specific skillbased
individual, for example a trained technician in radiofrequency signalling.
The separate TAFE Centres appear to be busy operating their courses and
facilities. The Central NSW Office appears to be in a similar situation.
Would it be helpful to have someone from Industry to provide some type
of Central reference point for all concerned to allow for clearer identification
of the needs and requirements of Industry?
I have the impression that there are some types of advisory councillors,
but the real need seems to be for a central business enquiry line that
actually operates outside of TAFE restrictions. e.g. A Subcontracted Office.
I absolutely agree on the need for practical skills.
There is also a need for reinventing the system and rebadging the
students as for example:
"TECHNICIANS" rather than Apprentices.
Even Apprentices Technicians would provide for better acceptance and
standing.
All Academic trained people such as myself acknowledge the need for well
trained technicians, and it can be quite difficult to know where to find
such people, especially ones trained to deal with the diverse requirements
of the international market place.
I hope these brief thoughts help with your inquiry, and I would be pleased
to contribute further if the need arises.
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