IVETA celebrated its 40th anniversary with a conference in San Antonio, Texas. The event was held from 4-7 December 2024 at the Hilton Palacio del Rio hotel in conjunction with the annual ACTE Conference, which was held at the Convention Centre nearby. The event was made possible through the close cooperation with ACTE, and through the diligence of the IVETA Executive Committee.
The event was overseen and conducted by Warnborough College, an IVETA member.
This Year’s Theme
The theme for the conference was “Reviewing and Reframing TVET to Improve Economic and Social Outcomes”, focused on the role of technical, vocational education and training (TVET) and whether or not it remains fit for purpose in the ever-changing world today. A key consideration was to evaluate the social and economic impact of TVET programs.
International Speakers and Attendees
Making good of the IVETA name, the conference brought together a host of speakers and attendees from around the world. Countries represented including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, the British Virgin Islands, Canada, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Malawi, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.
Other Activities
On 4 December, a special visit was organised by Dr Julie Furst-Bowe to San Antonio Community College. IVETA members were met by SACC’s Provost, Dr Cassandra Rincones, and her team before being taken around the College to see their impressive facilities. Huge thanks to the SACC team for their hospitality.
Birthday Celebration
A celebratory get-together was held at the Café Olé on the famous Riverwalk to salute IVETA’s 40 years of existence. The event was organised by Executive Secretariat, Dr Sumaya Frick, with everyone singing ‘Happy Birthday’ before President Dr Julian Ng cut the cake. Immediate Past-President, Dr John Gaal, received the President’s Award for Outstanding Leadership, which was sponsored by Epsilon Pi Tau. Other key IVETA members also received Certificates of Appreciation.
Camaraderie and Networking
The event provided an opportunity for many IVETA members to meet for the first time, network and spend time together sightseeing or simply having meals together. Here’s to another 40 years, IVETA!
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