Slovenia: 25 years of national vocational qualifications system

Building the system

The NVQ system was initiated in 1994 by the Ministry of Labour. The first certification procedures in 1999 aimed at validating the skills of industrial workers without formal qualifications. The Phare MOCCA project (1999-2000) helped shape the system, with pilot studies coordinated by the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for VET. These explored EU certification models and laid the groundwork for the current system.

Today’s NVQ system is based on labour market needs and social partnership, ensuring transparency and equal access. It complements formal education and supports lifelong learning. Its legal basis lies in the National Professional Qualifications Act and the Rules on the method and procedure for the verification and certification of national vocational qualifications.

Candidates obtain an NVQ certificate through the process of validation and assessment of non-formal learning. In 2023, 26% of candidates obtained the certificate through portfolio assessment, and 74% through practical assessment. Committee members must demonstrate recent work experience in the relevant field and be formally licensed.

Evaluating impact

A 2024 study evaluation of 2023 candidates confirmed the system’s positive impact on improved employability and job mobility, which remain key motivators. Candidates expressed strong satisfaction, particularly with the professionalism of assessment committees. However, areas for improvement include:

• integrating practical training into the certification process;
• improving access to preparatory resources;
• strengthening the consistency of portfolio assessment criteria.

The study also highlighted the international reach of the system. In 2023, candidates came primarily from Slovenia (3 204), followed by Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, North Macedonia, and other countries.

2024 NVQ at a glance

• 3 949 candidates, with an 80% success rate
• Most awarded certificates: Security Officer (674), High-rise construction worker (361), forestry logger (150), pharmaceutical production process technician (115), accountant (128), real estate agent (104)
• Since inception: 117 153 certificates awarded
• Catalogue coverage: 163 active catalogues of knowledge
• Infrastructure: 115 training providers, 671 NVQ counsellors, 653 examination committee members
• Gender ratio: 28% women, 72% men

Future directions

Due to favourable labour market conditions, demand for NVQ certification has recently declined. Raising awareness among employers and improving links between NVQ and formal education remain key challenges. Making NVQs a more integrated part of adult learning could strengthen lifelong learning and widen access to formal recognition of competences.

Read more:

• Spremljava sistema NPK – kandidati v postopku pridobitve certifikata NPK [Monitoring of the NVQ system – candidates in the process of acquiring an NVQ certificate in 2023] (Only in Slovenian)
• Validation of non-formal and informal learning in Slovenia – One off Report