Portugal: qualifications plan strengthens skills in rural fire management

In May 2026, Portugal approved the National Qualifications Plan for the Integrated Rural Fire Management System (PNQ-SGIFR), for the period 2025-2030, which sets out a comprehensive framework to qualify professionals involved in all phases of rural fire management, from prevention and preparedness to response and recovery.

This initiative responds to the increasing challenges associated with climate change and the growing complexity of fire risk. It also addresses the need for greater coherence and specialisation in training the different actors within the system.

The PNQ_SGIFR follows a collaborative model involving several public entities. The Agency for the Integrated Management of Rural Fires (AGIF) is responsible for organising, promoting, and coordinating the process, alongside other key fire management organisations. It also involves organisations overseeing training, such as the Directorate-General for Employment and Labour Relations, the Agency for Assessment and Accreditation of Higher Education, the Institute of Higher Education, and various polytechnic and university institutions.

Aligning training with operational needs

The PNQ-SGIFR uses a structured approach to skills development based on a detailed mapping of required functions, activities and skills. In total, 62 functions and 154 key activities were identified across the rural fire management cycle.

This mapping is intended to align training provision with the tasks performed in the field and in decision-making roles, contributing to a more coherent and professionalised system. By defining common skills standards, the plan promotes a shared technical framework for professionals from different organisations involved in wildfire management.

Strengthening VET and certification

A central element of the plan is the creation of a sectoral certification system to ensure the quality and relevance of training.

At VET level, the plan is mainly based on training units from the National Qualifications Catalogue, in areas such as the protection of people and property and forestry. The certification system introduces additional requirements for training providers and trainers, helping to reduce variability in training quality and ensuring alignment with the sector’s specific needs.

It also includes mechanisms for the recognition, validation and certification of skills acquired through work experience, supporting career development and professional mobility.

Micro-credentials and lifelong learning

To address higher-level skills needs, the PNQ‑SGIFR introduces micro-credentials in higher education, primarily for technical and decision-making roles.

These short, modular learning units are designed to support ongoing skills update and may be integrated into academic programmes at universities and polytechnics, often in cooperation with research centres and sectoral entities.

The plan includes 46 non-higher-level training units and 19 higher education micro-credentials, promoting flexible learning pathways and strengthening links between VET and higher education.

Targets and expected impact

By 2028, Portugal aims to complete 80% of the programme and ensure that 10 000 professionals hold certified training.

A digital platform will record qualifications and skills, promoting transparency and professional mobility within the system.

By aligning skills development with operational needs, the plan is expected to strengthen workforce capacity, improve safety and support more effective rural fire management.

Read more:

• Presidency of the Council of Ministers. (2026). Resolution of the Council of Ministers No. 101/2026, of 27 May.
• Integrated Rural Fire Management System. (n.d.). National Qualification Plan for the Integrated Rural Fire Management System.