ADVANCE FUTURE-READY TVET THROUGH DIGITAL CURRICULUM VALIDATION IN ETHIOPIA

The workshop brought together 61 professionals, including representatives from MOLS, FTI, regional TVET bureaus, TVET colleges and partners involved in digitalization activities. The initiative was supported through the sustainability phase of the Better Education for Africa's Rise (BEAR II) project, with support from the Government of the Republic of Korea.

The workshop provided a platform for technical review and professional feedback to strengthen the quality, relevance, accessibility and usability of the revised curriculum and digital learning materials, while ensuring their alignment with labour market needs and Ethiopia's digital transformation priorities.

Preparing TVET for a changing world of work

Opening the workshop, Ato Azmeraw Kebede, Adviser to the State Minister of the Ministry of Labor and Skills, highlighted the importance of expanding digitalization efforts to regions and TVET colleges. He emphasized the need to strengthen ICT infrastructure and mobilize the resources required to support the effective use of digital learning across the TVET system.

Dr. Abdoulaye Salifou, Chief of the Education Sector at the UNESCO Liaison Office in Addis Ababa, underscored the importance of equipping TVET systems, teachers and learners with the skills needed for a rapidly changing world of work.

"This workshop is not simply about validating a curriculum or reviewing learning materials. It is about preparing Ethiopia's TVET system, teachers and learners for a rapidly changing world of work."

He noted that emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, automation and digital platforms, are changing how people learn and work. He stressed the importance of curricula and learning materials that are competency-based, inclusive, relevant and future-oriented, while fostering critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, collaboration and entrepreneurship.

Reviewing and strengthening digital learning materials

The workshop reviewed the experience gained through the BEAR II project in digital content development and the capacity-building undertaken to support the integration of digital learning into the TVET sector. Participants were also introduced to the BEAR II sustainability blended training pathway and validation process, covering capacity building, the introduction of digital tools, content development, standards maintenance, validation and continuous improvement.