Interoperability refers to the ability of different digital systems to securely exchange information using common standards. In simple terms, it allows systems to communicate with each other. Information entered into one system can then be securely shared with another, reducing repeated data entry and improving the availability of reliable information.
This is important for TVET because it can connect information throughout a student’s journey, from enrolment and training to certification and employment. Students can provide their information once and use it across different services. Employers can verify qualifications more easily and identify skilled workers faster. Government agencies can also access more reliable information to support planning and workforce development.
Rama Khatiwada, Under Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science (MoES) said that advancing TVET interoperability will strengthen the sector.
To achieve this, the initiative aims to improve data exchange among the MoES, the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS), the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT), training providers, employers, job platforms, and other government systems.
The CTEVT, with support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation SDC funded Quality TVET for Youth (QualiTY) project is working with government stakeholders to establish an Interoperability Framework and Protocol for Nepal’s TVET sector.
Swisscontact is supporting this process to strengthen the quality and relevance of skills development. By bringing government and other key stakeholders together, Swisscontact is supporting to develop common standards for sharing TVET data.
The initiative has national relevance to connect existing TVET and education systems across federal, provincial, and local levels. This can improve data sharing, strengthen coordination, and support better planning while creating stronger links between skills development and employment.
A draft framework has been developed and is awaiting submission to CTEVT and MoEST for approval and implementation.
The proposed Central TVET Data Repository System (CTDRS) will serve as a central platform that brings together data from different stakeholders. It can also link with systems such as the Integrated Education Management Information System (IEMIS) and labour market information systems.
The proposed architecture act as the national data backbone of Nepal’s TVET ecosystem, integrating data from various stakeholders:
If implemented, the system could benefit more than 1,600 TVET institutions, over 100,000 students enrolled in CTEVT programmes, and around 25,000 students under CEHRD. By making education, training, and certification data easier to access and use, it can improve service delivery and support informed decision making.
Better connections between TVET and labour market information can help employers find qualified workers more efficiently, while enabling the government to better understand skills demand and employment outcomes. Over time, a connected TVET data system can support smoother transitions from training to employment and help build a more responsive and effective TVET sector in Nepal.
QualiTY is a bilateral project between the Government of Switzerland and the Government of Nepal. On behalf of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation SDC, the Swisscontact - Swiss Foundation for Technical Cooperation provides technical assistance to the QualiTY project.