Amman, Aug. 12 (Petra) – The 10th Arab Conference on Vocational Training opened Wednesday at the Amman Chamber of Commerce under the theme "Vocational and Technical Training: The Gateway to Professional Transformation," bringing together leaders and experts from several Arab countries to discuss how to align vocational training with labor market needs.

The conference is examining a shift from training models based primarily on hours and certificates toward systems centered on competencies, performance, professional accreditation, and verifiable learning outcomes.

Ibrahim Ramadhneh, adviser to the Minister of Education and Human Resources Development for vocational and technical education, stressed the importance of integrating vocational and technical education with training and labor market requirements to equip students and graduates with practical, employable skills.

Amman Chamber of Commerce Board Treasurer Khattab Banna said vocational training has become a strategic tool for developing measurable competencies and keeping pace with digital transformation, artificial intelligence and the skills-based economy.

He called for an integrated system linking skills development, professional accreditation, performance-based assessment and continuous professional development, supported by partnerships among educational institutions, businesses and training centers.

Arab Trainers Union President Younis Khataybeh said employers increasingly assess candidates based on their actual capabilities and verifiable evidence of competence rather than academic qualifications alone.

He outlined the union's efforts to develop a professional accreditation system covering professional certification, digital verification of credentials, intensive training and continuous professional development.

Participants also stressed the importance of work-based learning, competency-based assessment and stronger partnerships between training providers, employers and accreditation bodies.

Sessions on the first day addressed professional accreditation, performance-based qualifications, international recognition of certifications and continuing professional development. Speakers also discussed digital verification mechanisms and micro-training programs designed to address specific skills gaps through short, targeted courses.

The conference concluded its first day with discussions on translating the proposed models into practical applications and partnerships to strengthen vocational training and professional accreditation across the Arab world and improve the transition from training to employment and sustainable professional development.

//Petra// AJ