Career guidance aligned with global norms gain traction

Moves to reinforce career guidance in general education are advancing, supported by initiatives that incorporate international professional standards into pathways for secondary school students.

- By Khanh Linh

The event heard that education must become more adaptable as the labour market evolves

Policy attention is shifting towards strengthening career guidance in schools and expanding learning pathways.

In this context, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has launched a stakeholder-led initiative to support the gradual development of internationally aligned models through a series of “Future Pathways” workshops held in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

The initiative brings together regulators, schools, businesses, and professional organisations to exchange practical approaches to career guidance at the secondary level. Discussions centre on developing models that combine career information, essential skills, practical exposure, and digital tools, aimed at helping students build pathways aligned with labour market requirements.

This policy direction was reflected at a workshop held in Hanoi in mid-April, co-organised with the National Economics University, where participants focused on how to operationalise career guidance under the new regulatory framework.

Ren Varma, head of Mainland Southeast Asia for the ACCA, said expanding access to professional learning and career opportunities remains a core priority, particularly as expectations for the younger workforce continue to evolve.

"Early access to high-quality career guidance and internationally aligned learning pathways is particularly important," he said. "Career guidance should begin earlier, in a structured and practical manner, closely linked to teachers who engage with students on a daily basis."