ACCP Certification is an Opportunity for Everyone
The ASEAN Common Competency Program (ACCP) is a program which allows employees in the textile and garment industry to obtain formal recognition of the professional skills and knowledge they possess and obtain certification for their specific occupation. The certification is recognized by AFTEX country members and will allow workers to verify their skills to potential employers in other ASEAN countries; which will be a key advantage once the ASEAN Economic Community is realized in 2015 and there is freedom of movement of labor across the region. ACCP is the world’s first regional work based standardization program for the textile and garment industry. To date, 187 employees in the garment and textile industry in 5 ASEAN member countries have been certified by ACCP in the following 5 specific job competencies, Sewing machine operator, Sewing machine supervisor, Sewing machine mechanic, Merchandiser and Pattern maker.
This unique program provides considerable benefits not only to the employee who receives formal certification of their working capabilities, but most importantly it gives employers a benchmark or a reference of the skills and knowledge of the employee. In the past, employers had to self assess potential employees to see if they were able to perform the required tasks in any given position, this often meant wasted man hours or reduced productivity. Now, an employer can be assured that the ACCP certified employee has the necessary knowledge, expertise and skills to perform the tasks required in the given position.
The advantages to the business owners to have their employees certified by ACCP are not simply related to the performance of their employees, but may also affect their standing in obtaining future orders from customers. Many international brands do not wish to have their names associated with sweat shop operations and now are placing a premium on factories which are being socially responsible. With ACCP certified employees, factory owners and employers can demonstrate their capabilities to produce a quality garment by skilled employees but also to highlight their dedication to develop their employees’ skills.
ACCP this year has introduced 5 new competencies available for certification being Sewing machine operator, Level 2, Sewing machine mechanic, Level 2, Merchandiser, Level 3, Pattern maker – tops, Level 3 and Pattern maker – bottoms, Level 3. This new competencies are a progression from the first five and further advance the skills and knowledge of the candidates.
For more information on the ACCP, please contact VALUE Project Director Mike Blakeley at: mblakeley@nathaninc.com
