Continuing professional development (CPD) is crucial for keeping vocational education and training (VET) relevant. To address this, Hungary introduced the Electronic System for Continuing Professional Development of VET Teachers and Trainers (OTR) in 2021. This electronic platform, part of the VET 4.0 strategy, offers flexible and comprehensive training opportunities, equipping teachers and trainers to meet evolving labour market and technological demands. By autumn 2024, the system had shown significant results.
Why is the OTR important?
Under 2019 legislation, all VET teachers and trainers must complete at least 60 hours of CPD every 4 years, primarily in corporate settings. CPD performance directly affects teacher evaluations and, in some cases, employment status.
The training programmes aim to improve skills for teaching, institutional management, assessment processes, and leadership roles. These structured courses ensure that teachers remain up to date with professional and methodological advancements.
Efficient digital platform
The OTR system streamlines the entire application process, allowing teachers and trainers to access training opportunities easily, track progress, and comply with CPD requirements. Schools also benefit from simplified administration.
To support the platform adoption, the IKK Innovative Training Support Centre (IKK) conducted 22 webinars and online training sessions, reaching 862 participants.
The training offerings are available on the IKK website, making them easily accessible.
Achievements to date
By September 2024, the OTR system had recorded:
- 221 training programmes, many focusing on methodology and competence development;
registrations from 521 VET schools, 60 CPD course providers and 22 614 teachers/trainers.

Advancing digital competences
Recognising the importance of digital education in the 21st century, the OTR offers 13 digital competence development courses. The IKK supports integrating digital learning materials developed through EU-funded projects into daily teaching practices. Since June 2024, the IKK has been organising sector-specific (currently available in six sectors) in-house developed, practice-oriented training courses, led by experienced trainers.
Looking ahead
The OTR marks a significant step forward for Hungarian VET, improving teacher competences and modernising the education system. Its continued expansion and development, supported by EU and Swiss-funded development programmes, will be crucial for maintaining high-quality vocational and adult education in Hungary.
Data source: IKK and OTR electronic system
Read more
- OTR system at IKK Innovative Training Support Centre website
- Cedefop (2024). Vocational education and training policy briefs 2023 – Hungary. Cedefop monitoring and analysis of vocational education and training policies.
- Cedefop (2024). Vocational education and training in Hungary: short description. Publications Office of the European Union.
- ReferNet Hungary; Cedefop (2023). Hungary: promoting professional support for VET teachers through sectoral knowledge sharing. National news on VET.
Please cite this news item as: ReferNet Hungary, & Cedefop (2025, January 9). Hungary: electronic system supports continuing professional development of VET teachers and trainers. National news on VET. |