PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

22 May 2025, QUEANBEYAN - Philippine Ambassador to Australia H.E. Antonio M. Morales met with the Hon. Steven James Robert Whan, New South Wales Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education at the Minister’s electorate office in Queanbeyan on 02 May 2025 to discuss potential education and skills training partnerships between the Philippines and NSW.

Ambassador Morales shared the Philippine government’s efforts to expand access to high-quality education through transnational education (TNE) partnerships, particularly in priority sectors such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), maritime education, and technical vocational training. He highlighted the country’s growing demand for globally competitive skills and underscored the role of Australian institutions in helping address these needs through collaborative programs.

Minister Whan welcomed the interest in closer collaboration and provided an overview of NSW’s initiatives to strengthen skills training and programs designed to meet emerging industry demands. He highlighted the TAFE facility in Meadowbank, which offers specialized training in cybersecurity, as an example of NSW’s commitment to future-ready education.

Both sides acknowledged the strong foundation for bilateral cooperation in education and skills development and expressed interest in exploring TNE and capacity- building opportunities that align with the workforce priorities of the Philippines and Australia. - END