The Federation of craftsmen (Fédération des artisans – FDA) is launching skill centres (centres de compétences) for continuing vocational training to face upcoming skills challenges.

The centres’ aim is to provide crafts businesses with skilled employees who are abreast with developments in technology, management and economy. The centres are inspired by the successful model set up by the training body of the building sector (Institut de formation du secteur du bâtiment – IFSB), and are in line with the government’s declaration and European programmes on sustainable construction and smart energy management. The centres cover skills in engineering, building and the finishing trade.

The skill centres pursue a three-fold objective:

  • setting up a coherent, complete system of sectoral continuing vocational training;
  • ensuring technology watch for the sector;
  • investing in the solidarity economy.

The system is structured according to the European qualifications framework (EQF) and enables employees to progress continuously throughout their careers.

To provide financing for the skill centres, businesses in the sectors of engineering, building and the finishing trade will be investing an annual 0.5% of their total payroll in vocational training measures in favour of their employees.

Activities at the centres will commence on 1 July 2015.

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