December 12: European Union (EU) has signed a grant agreement of euro 5.5 million (NRs 667.9 million) with the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT) for implementing 'Sakchyamta' project. As co-financier of the project, the CTEVT will contribute Euro 61,111 in the project.

Head of Cooperation at the EU Nepal office Andreas Roettger and Pushpa Raman Wagle, CTEVT member secretary signed the agreement at CTEVT office on December 8, said EU in its press statement. Sakchyamta is part of the larger euro 20 million 'EU-Nepal Practical Partnership for Technical Vocational Education and Training reform (TVET-PP)' project where EU has collaborated with private sector and the British Council.

"As Nepal is now embarking on a new phase of federal governance, a strong focus on unleashing the economic potential is crucial for the nation’s vision and drive towards LDC graduation by 2022 and middle income status by 2030. We hope the Sakchyamta project will play a pivotal support role in boosting economic growth by helping to create a more demand-driven workforce," Roettger said after the signing ceremony. The EU said it continues to be committed to assist Nepal in achieving better livelihood opportunities for all.

CTEVT Member Secretary Wagle thanked the EU for the valuable support. He said, "We at CTEVT are genuinely enthusiastic about this cooperation, which will enhance coordination and quality in this important sector. Our commitment is very strong to maximize the results of the Sakchyamta project by ensuring effective implementation."

The EU aims at bringing noteworthy changes in the TVET sector through its current support. The EU-CTEVT partnership focuses on strengthening the quality of planning, coordination and implementation capacity of CTEVT to also increase the reach out to the most disadvantaged and ensure leadership in line with CTEVT's strategic plan (2014-2018).

The project will work in the areas of capacity building of CTEVT staff, engage with the private sector in the development of a demand driven TVET system, ensure employers' involvement in developing curricula and learning materials, improving quality standards, assurance and monitoring in the TVET sector. The project will also strengthen effective coordination and collaboration with national, provincial and local TVET stakeholders.