ACCP to Standardize Five New Competencies

An AFTEX Skills Taskforce meeting on the sidelines of the 2011 SAFSA Global Forum confirmed that five new competencies will be adopted for ASEAN Common Competencies Program (ACCP) assessment during the 2011-2012 cycle: Sewing Machine Operator Level 2, Sewing Machine Mechanic Level 2, Merchandiser Level 3, and two Pattern Maker Level 3 competencies (tops/bottoms).

VALUE project director Mike Blakeley described the support VALUE will provide ACCP in 2011-2012, including moving the Workforce Development Manager position to Bangkok, supporting Laos’ integration into the Program, and pursuing outside donors to offset training costs for workers desiring ACCP certification.

A complementary program to SAFSA, ACCP represents an important milestone in the integration of Southeast Asia’s textile and apparel sector. ACCP certification offers a win-win scenario; inspiring confidence in employers and empowering workers to seek out the best opportunities.