RMIT University Hosts Forum to Tackle Australia’s Skills Crisis

By Kai March 23, 2025
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RMIT University in Australia recently hosted an industry forum titled “Addressing the Skills Crisis with Innovative Education Models,” bringing together government, civil society, and industry leaders to discuss Australia’s ongoing skills shortage.

The forum explored the role of tertiary education in tackling workforce challenges, with discussions led by RMIT Vice-Chancellor Professor Alec Cameron, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Mish Eastman, and Victorian Skills Authority CEO Craig Robertson.

RMIT’s Earn and Learn Model Gains Momentum

A key topic at the forum was RMIT’s Earn and Learn programme, an industry-based learning model that integrates full-time employment with tertiary education. Unlike traditional work-integrated learning programmes, Earn and Learn enables students to secure paid employment with partner companies while simultaneously earning their qualifications.

Professor Cameron described the initiative as a “turning point” for tertiary education, ensuring students acquire industry-relevant skills while completing their studies.

“This model addresses critical skills shortages, boosts workforce participation, and helps reskill employees at risk of unemployment,” he said.

According to RMIT, over 1,000 students have already enrolled in Earn and Learn pathways, particularly in high-demand sectors such as cyber security, IT, aged care, engineering, and nuclear medicine. These students gain hands-on experience in real workplaces while completing their academic coursework.

Mish Eastman highlighted the programme’s benefits, stating that industry partners play a crucial role in shaping student learning.

“Employers can tailor student training to meet their specific needs, helping to close skills gaps and improve productivity,” she said.

A New Approach to Workforce Development

With Australia facing a growing demand for skilled professionals, RMIT’s innovative education model aims to provide flexible pathways for students who need to work while studying.

“In a peak employment environment, we need to attract new learners into critical industries. Earn and Learn offers a practical way to get people into jobs while boosting Australia’s economic productivity,” Eastman added.

By fostering industry-academic partnerships, RMIT’s initiative is set to play a key role in shaping Australia’s workforce of the future.

Source: SHIKSHA

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