Australia has joined the UNESCO Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education, the world’s first higher education treaty.
The news came on International Day of Education on 24 January 2023.
As Australia joins the treaty, facilitating the recognition of qualifications granted in the country worldwide, the government firmly believes this will allow its education providers and students to be more globally mobile.
“The 1.4 million students who study at our universities each year can now have even greater confidence that their Australian qualification, whether undertaken onshore, offshore or online, will be recognised in other countries, helping them to access higher education abroad, as well as pursue greater employment opportunities,” said Australia’s Education Minister, Jason Clare.
Universities Australia, the peak body for the sector, has expressed support for the international agreement. Acting Chief Executive, Peter Chesworth, believes that more students with university degrees are needed in a changing world to lead the country forward.
The Minister for Skills and Training, Brendan O’Connor, also believes that the agreement will promote international recognition of Australia’s vocational education graduates and their career-relevant skills.
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The treaty is slated to benefit Australian students allowing them to access higher education without hesitation, including online or hybrid learning, joint degrees, micro-credentials, and studying abroad.
The Global Convention’s signature is a crucial accomplishment within the framework of the Australian Strategy for International Education 2021-2030.
