Event gives Hong Kong edge as regional education and training hub

Vocational education and training, or VET, is a vital part of the learning landscape in Hong Kong and the upcoming Worlddidac Asia 2015 Exhibition will give local and international visitors, among other themes, the chance to understand key developments affecting the sector and the wide range of other opportunities on offer.

The event, which runs from 18-20 March at AsiaWorld-Expo, will feature world-class speakers and thought leaders in the field, along with showcases, workshops and networking sessions attended by education experts and course providers drawn from around the region.

The more than 100 special exhibits will include a German pavilion, a digital games-based learning pavilion, a start-up corner overseen by Cyberport, and a “skills for the future” showcase organised by Hong Kong’s own Vocational Training Council (VTC).

German Exhibitor during Worlddidac Asia 2013

Speaker and panel sessions will fall under either the Asia Education Leaders Forum or the Education Partnership Forum. The former will address broad themes such as “Shouldn’t learning be fun?” and “What’s next for education?” while the latter will deal with topics like cross-border education, developing students into global citizens, and skills for the 21st century. With delegates expected from more than 120 institutions in Hong Kong, South China and Asean countries, it will be an ideal opportunity to discuss developments and best practices in the area of school partnerships.

Among the distinguished participants, Secretary for Education Eddie Ng Hak-kim will deliver a keynote speech on Hong Kong’s steps to becoming a centre of excellence. Former prime minister of Australia, Julia Gillard, will attend in her role as chair of the board of the Global Partnership in Education. And Lucien Vattel, who is at the forefront of a potential revolution in the use of digital game-based learning, will also share the spotlight.