KUWAIT: The Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET) hosted the 31st meeting of heads and directors of technical and vocational education institutions from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, aimed at strengthening regional cooperation to better serve GCC citizens across various sectors.
In his opening remarks, Abdullah Al-Rubaie, Head of the Human and Environmental Affairs Sector at the GCC Secretariat General, lauded the collective efforts of GCC technical and vocational training institutions, underscoring their pivotal role in fostering joint Gulf cooperation. “These institutions play a critical role in enhancing collaboration and advancing developmental goals,” he said. Al-Rubaie also extended his gratitude to Kuwait’s PAAET for hosting the meeting, praising the country’s continued commitment to education and regional integration.
Highlighting the strategic importance of vocational training, Al-Rubaie emphasized its role as a cornerstone of comprehensive development. “Technical education and vocational training are fundamental in building skilled generations capable of contributing meaningfully to economic and social progress,” he said. He noted that the GCC’s sustained focus on this sector has resulted in over 1,000 accredited government and private institutions, serving more than 300,000 male and female trainees across the region.
Al-Rubaie also expressed appreciation for the support of GCC leadership, including His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and fellow GCC rulers, whose directives have significantly bolstered joint Gulf initiatives in education and training. Dr Hassan Al-Fajjam, Director General of PAAET and Chairman of the current session of the committee, welcomed the attending Gulf delegations. Speaking to the press on the sidelines of the meeting, he expressed optimism about the outcomes of the sessions. “We look forward to a series of resolutions that will elevate the quality and scope of technical education and vocational training across our nations,” he stated.
Al-Fajjam said the meeting’s agenda includes discussions on the implementation of the Gulf Strategy for Combating Drugs—endorsed during the Supreme Council’s 45th session—as well as a comprehensive survey project aligned with labor market needs, artificial intelligence applications, and other forward-looking initiatives. He added that participants reviewed the outcomes and recommendations from the 30th session and adopted relevant decisions. “These achievements are the result of tireless efforts and a shared vision for constructive and united Gulf action,” he affirmed. – KUNA
