In today’s fast-changing world, no country can shape the future of vocational education and training (VET) alone. From digital innovation to demographic shifts, the challenges facing education and labour markets are increasingly cross-border. That’s why transnational cooperation continues to be a strategic priority for Member States, a foundation for building a resilient, future-ready Union of Skills.
Across Europe, countries are aligning policies, sharing solutions and driving innovation. Through peer reviews, regional alliances and joint innovation projects, transnational cooperation is strengthening trust and convergence in national VET systems.
Peer learning for stronger quality assurance
Peer reviews within the EQAVET (European Quality Assurance Reference Framework for VET) have proven to be a key tool for cooperation on quality assurance, tackling topics from work-based learning (WBL) to leadership and innovation.
In 2024, a peer review on Lithuania’s policy implementation focused on the role of teacher certification in quality assurance. Peers shared actionable recommendations to improve the Lithuanian national teacher certification system and strengthen teacher involvement in shaping quality processes.
The success of VET students largely depends on the dedication and expertise of VET teachers, who are the backbone of high-quality VET delivery. As expectations for these educators rise, their mastery becomes crucial for enhancing the quality of VET. Thus, VET policy must prioritise professional development opportunities for VET teachers, empowering them to drive impactful changes in VET – Neringa Tolstych, ReferNet Coordinator, Lithuania.
Regional collaboration advancing work-based learning (WBL)
The Baltic Alliance for Apprenticeships (2015 – 2020), laid the foundations for structured regional collaboration in WBL across Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania. Through this alliance, the three countries have promoted the uptake of apprenticeship models and aligned their approaches to developing skills for regional industries.
Building on this foundation, Latvia has made transnational cooperation a strategic pillar of its VET policy for 2021–2027, with a continued focus on Baltic collaboration. The earlier partnership with Germany in the wood industry took place under the Baltic Alliance, while current cooperation with Finland aims to further align WBL structures and curricula across borders.
Transnational Partnerships for Future Skills
Cooperation is also helping VET systems respond to digital transformation. Slovenia, with partners from France, Italy, Ireland and Luxembourg, has trained nearly 270 teachers in the use of AI in classrooms, while other projects with Nordic partners, are enhancing blended learning using virtual reality, HTML5 Package (H5P) and game-based tools.
These initiatives go beyond piloting tools. They build educator networks, support peer learning and develop a common language for digital innovation in VET.
A long-term vision for international cooperation
Some countries are fostering transnational cooperation through institutional strategies and initiatives. France’s Trades and Qualifications Campuses have signed multiple international agreements focused on green and digital skills, while Malta’s Institute of Tourism Studies is building global academic partnerships through its internationalisation strategy.
Transnational cooperation empowers countries to learn from one another, test solutions, and co-create resilient VET systems. As the EU deepens its commitment to skills mobility and recognition, a strong foundation of mutual trust and collaboration will be key. When cooperation becomes strategic rather than optional, Member States can build a stronger, more inclusive and forward-looking Union of Skills.
