The Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) is reinforcing its position as a national policy leader by introducing the ITECA Boardroom to Parliament Executive Program, designed to enhance the advocacy skills of leaders in the independent skills training and higher education sectors.
“The ITECA Boardroom to Parliament Executive Program is a testament to our commitment to empowering leaders in the skills training and higher education sectors. It’s about providing them with the tools and knowledge to effectively engage with parliamentarians and drive positive change,” said Troy Williams, ITECA Chief Executive.
The program is structured to enhance the understanding and engagement of participants with parliamentarians. With a focus on the critical role of independent tertiary education providers in skilling, reskilling, and upskilling the workforce, the program covers a comprehensive range of topics, including the policy landscape, engaging politicians, and effective advocacy strategies.
“ITECA members play a crucial role in Australia’s workforce development, and this program ensures their voice is heard where it matters most,” Mr Williams said.
A key element of the program is the importance of shaping messages succinctly and effectively for tertiary education policy advocacy.
“This program is not just about learning; it’s about action. We’re equipping skills training and higher education executives with the ability to articulate the value of independent tertiary education when they meet with their local parliamentarian,” Mr Williams added.
Held at Parliament House in Canberra, the ITECA Boardroom to Parliament Executive Program includes key networking opportunities with senior executives across various sectors. Admission is selective, based on an alignment with policies that advance the interests of independent tertiary education in Australia. It’s open to executives from small and large tertiary education providers.
“Independent Registered Training Organisations support around 89% of the 4.6 million students in skills training, with independent providers also supporting around 10% of the 1.6 million students in a higher education awards program. In this context, ITECA has a responsibility to ensure our sector’s voice is heard,” Mr Williams said.
One of the critical elements of the ITECA Boardroom to Parliament Executive Program is an in-depth exploration of the structure of parliament, the specific roles of parliamentarians within this framework, and their influence at the national and local levels. Additionally, the program delves into the nuances of policy delegation in tertiary education across the Australian federal government, states, and territories.
“The program’s outcome is to skills training and higher education executives to effectively and succinctly shape their message when meeting local parliamentarians. This skill is essential for advocating the interests of independent tertiary education and the ability of ITECA members to influence policy decisions,” Mr Williams concluded.
