Transparency and portability of VET skills and qualifications
European principles and tools, such as EQF, ESCO, ECTS, Europass and ECVET, provide a strong basis for transparency and portability of national and sectoral qualifications across Europe, including the issuing of digital diplomas and certificates.
This thematic category looks at how individuals are supported in transferring, accumulating, and validating skills and competences acquired in formal, non-formal and informal settings – including learning on the job – and in having their learning recognised towards a qualification at any point of their lives. This is only possible if qualifications are transparent and comparable and are part of comprehensive national qualifications frameworks. Availability of qualifications smaller than full and acquirable in shorter periods of time is necessary; some countries have recently worked on developing partial qualifications, microcredentials, etc.
To boost adults' and NEETs' qualifications and tackle the excessive structural qualification deficit of the Portuguese population.
To ease adults' and NEETs' access to further studies and boost their employability.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Ordinance No 232/2016 consolidated the rules of RVCC, introduced Qualifica centres, described a simple process of creating and authorising them, strengthened the teams of professionals in these centres and expanded the network.
The RVCC process comprises two paths, education and professional, each based on a different set of standards:
the key competence standards (for education validation);
the professional competence standards (for professional validation).
The RVCC process also utilises a...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
National Agency for Qualification and Vocational Education and Training (ANQEP)
The implementation of the National credit system for VET has the following main objectives:
promoting flexibility in the qualification pathways and certification strategies within the scope of the national qualifications system (SNQ);
capitalising on individual training and lifelong learning paths, with a view to obtaining qualifications;
promoting the transparency of the learning outcomes achieved or to be achieved through its quantitative expression;
improving the certified learning in the...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2017, Portuguese legislation introduced a National credit system for VET in line with ECVET principles, which was intended to support permeability between VET pathways and higher education, as well as mobility within Europe. A major priority is that the system supports adult qualifications. It applies to level 2, 4 and 5 qualifications of the national qualifications framework, QNQ (Quadro Nacional de Qualificações). It also applies to certified training programmes/courses, which are...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
National Agency for Qualification and Vocational Education and Training (ANQEP)
To develop qualifications based on the learning outcomes approach.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2015, the National Agency for Qualification and VET (ANQEP) introduced a new methodology for designing qualifications based on learning outcomes. It applies to VET qualifications at levels 2, 4 and 5 of the NQF.
Since 2016, ANQEP has been organising and monitoring several training courses for coordinators and trainers from professional schools where qualifications will be developed according to this new methodology. It has also been carrying out training sessions for the different VET...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
National Agency for Qualification and Vocational Education and Training (ANQEP)
The aim of the project is to improve the quality and content of 21st century vocational training and adult education.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The aims of the project Improving the quality and content of 21st century vocational training and adult education (GINOP - 6.2.4) include the review of the examination system, the development of a validation system and the preparation of a methodology for VET content development that is compatible with open and innovative learning settings as well as the demands of the economy. Uniform criteria were also developed to strengthen the external evaluation system in CVET. Criteria include...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Culture and Innovation
IKK Innovative Training Support Center (IKK Nonprofit Plc.)
National Office for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Learning (NOVETAL)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
During the fourth quarter of 2018, the National Institute of Qualifications (INCUAL) carried out a review of the entire national catalogue of occupational standards. It aimed to set up a 2019 work plan that would accommodate the need for updating occupational standards and (where appropriate) designing new ones which could have greater significance or impact on employment.
The INCUAL is responsible for defining, updating and adapting the Spanish national catalogue of occupational standards...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Vocational Training and Sports
Ministry of Education and Vocational Training (until 2023)
Policy expectations from the provision of RPL services are high. The assumption is that if we make our skills and learning, however attained, visible as qualifications, ultimately there will be better skills matching and less unemployment and underemployment.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The 2016-19 action plan for education includes the aim to develop a national policy on the recognition of prior learning (RPL) (objective 2.1, action No 44) by 2018. The 2025 National skills strategy that was published in 2016 has, among its objectives, the development of a system for RPL and better recognition of workplace learning in support of lifelong learning. In 2017, QQI published policies and criteria for validation in FET. RPL is also a part of the review of the national framework...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Established in 2003, the Irish national framework of qualifications (NFQ) is a 10-level, single national entity through which all learning achievements may be measured and related to each other. Underpinned by quality assurance principles, the Irish NFQ describes qualifications in the Irish education and training system and sets out what each qualification says about what learners know, understand and are able to do. It also sets out qualifications pathways from one NFQ level to the next.
In...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Increasing quality in VET mobility and facilitating the recognition of learning outcomes achieved abroad, thus helping learners to capitalise on mobility experiences, even short-term ones.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Italian context has been characterised in recent years by reform processes aimed at building an Italian lifelong learning system and a national system of skills certification. The several acts adopted, including the inter-ministerial Decree of 30 June 2015 regarding the QNQR (National framework of regional qualifications) and the inter-ministerial Decree of 8 January 2018, defining the QNQ (the Italian national qualifications framework), in line with the European principles for the...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Labour and Social Policies
National Institute for Public Policy Analysis (INAPP)
Establishment of the national system for validation of non-formal and informal learning and certification of competences, for lifelong learning.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Law 92/2012 on the reform of the labour market defines for the first time in Italy the validation of non-formal and informal learning, as one of the key elements to ensure and implement lifelong learning in a comprehensive and systematic manner, establishing rules and regulatory requirements (standards) concerning the characteristics of the system and the stakeholders involved, ensuring transparency, usability and broad accessibility of validation/certification services (IVC).
In recent...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Labour and Social Policies
Regions and autonomous provinces
Ministry of Education and Merit
Ministry of Education (until 2022)
Ministry of Universities and Research
Ministry of Education, Universities and Research (until 2019)
The objective of the National framework of regional qualifications (QNQR) is the national recognition of the regional qualifications and their referencing to EQF. The QNQR is the mutual reference for identification, validation and certification of regional qualification and competences in terms of training credits, also in a European respect.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In June 2015, an inter-ministerial Decree (signed by the education and labour ministries) introduced an operational framework for the recognition of regional qualifications and related skills competences at a national level (National framework of regional qualifications, QNQR). The agreement was endorsed by an inter-ministerial decree signed in June by the education and labour ministries. Mutual recognition of regional qualifications and standard procedures (including the issuing of final...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Labour and Social Policies
Regions and autonomous provinces
Ministry of Education (until 2022)
Ministry of Education, Universities and Research (until 2019)
Guarantee individual mobility and support the match between supply and demand of skills in the labour market; heighten the recognition and transparency of learning acquired and needs, as well as the use of certifications at national and European level;
ensure the readability, consultation and portability of qualifications and competences for lifelong learning in the context of the National system for the certification of competences.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2013, the Legislative Decree No 13 article 8 sets up the National repertory of education and training and professional qualifications.
In 2014, the National Technical Committee was established and works for the development of the National repertory that is a comprehensive collection of national, regional and sectorial repertories existing and encoded by the entitling bodies. The entitling bodies are the qualification authorities: education ministry (for school and university...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Labour and Social Policies
Ministry of Education and Merit
Ministry of Education (until 2022)
Regions and autonomous provinces
Ministry of Education, Universities and Research (until 2019)
Implementation of National qualifications framework and National strategy for the certification of competences.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
A national strategy on lifelong learning has been defined, together with the implementation of legislative norms on the identification and validation of competences acquired in different contexts, through which the National system for the certification of competences has been launched. Since 2012, as a consequence of the Recommendation for validation of non-formal and informal learning (2012), a national legal framework on validation of competences has been progressively developed in...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Labour and Social Policies
Regions and autonomous provinces
Ministry of Education and Merit
Ministry of Education (until 2022)
Ministry of Universities and Research
Ministry of Education, Universities and Research (until 2019)
National Institute for Public Policy Analysis (INAPP)
place the learner at the centre by optimising all possible types of innovative learning methods and environments;
improve skills sets that contribute to professional development, employment mobility and active citizenship;
develop support structures for adult learning;
improve governance in the lifelong learning sector.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Malta National Lifelong learning strategy 2020 consolidated ideas and processes that were already taking shape in different organisations and institutions in Malta, such as to ensure a single, coherent location to guide actions in lifelong learning. This strategy is not a stand-alone document but interrelates with other important national documents published in the same period whose recommendations dovetail with those in this strategy. It also builds on the recommendations of...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry for Education (MFED)(until 2022)
Ministry of Education and Employment (MEDE) (until 2020)
The objective of validation of informal and non-formal is to identify, assesses and formally certify the knowledge, skills and competences which individuals develop throughout their lives by means of participation in non-formal and informal learning. The validation process can result in an award recognising the skills, knowledge and competences an individual has obtained in her/his years of experience in a particular occupation. This award then provides the opportunity to further studies,...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2015, the National vocational education and training policy highlighted the need for training programmes for staff involved in validation, and for validation for learners with disability or learning difficulties. The Malta national lifelong learning strategy 2020, also adopted in 2015, set a target for having in place a transparent and sustainable system of validation. Reflection on a national plan for recognition of the skills and competences of the whole labour force by 2024 has been...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA)
National Commission for Further and Higher Education (NCFHE) (until 2021)
ECVET allows learners to accumulate, transfer and use their learning in units as these units are achieved. ECVET principles are at the foundation of the Maltese VET system. ECVET credit points are integrated in VET qualifications at EQF levels 1 to 4. Through this project the NCFHE aims to promote ECVET through various events and the publication of various leaflets and information.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The 2015 National vocational education and training policy proposed measures to:
mainstream modular structures (as they allow for unit transfer) by 2017;
use ECVET for MQF/EQF levels 1 to 4 and ECTS for VET and academic qualifications at levels 5 to 8;
base validation processes and assessment on ECVET.
All courses at EQF/MQF levels 1 to 4, including part-time ones, are modular-based on units and follow ECVET recommendations. Similarly, courses at EQF/MQF levels 5 to 8 are modular-based and...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA)
Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST)
National Commission for Further and Higher Education (NCFHE) (until 2021)
It provides a strategic opportunity for an outlook on possible goals for the furthering and widening VET in Malta. Policy recommendations are two-pronged: addressing quality and attractiveness as well as ensuring labour market relevance. These notions are interlinked in providing and sustaining stronger vocational education in Malta.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The National vocational and training policy mapped the VET sector in Malta and identified areas for future actions.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry for Education (MFED)(until 2022)
Ministry of Education and Employment (MEDE) (until 2020)
The objective of establishing the Malta qualifications framework (MQF) and its referencing to the EQF is to make the Maltese qualifications system framework easier to understand and review, and more transparent at national and international levels. The MQF is also a referencing tool that helps to describe and compare both national and foreign qualifications to promote their quality, transparency and mobility. The reference levels make it easier to understand what a learner with a...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2016, the National Commission for Further and Higher Education (NCFHE) published the fourth revised edition of the referencing report that sets the parameters for all qualifications and awards that can be conferred in Malta. It reflects on the range of current reforms representing a move towards a more modular based concept as building blocks for qualifications. Such an approach is intended to allow for and promote lifelong learning for non-traditional learners. It calls for better...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA)
National Commission for Further and Higher Education (NCFHE) (until 2021)
The EQF and MQF learning outcome descriptors promote transparency and comparability of qualifications of different national systems. This shift towards a learning outcomes orientation in education and training aims to help learners to progress in learning by facilitating flexible learning pathways and transfer across different levels and types of education and training and across national borders; this enables learners to accumulate and transfer different learning outcomes acquired in...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The compulsory education system has reviewed all its curricula in terms of learning outcomes and will be introducing them as from the academic year 2019-20.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry for Education (MFED)(until 2022)
Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA)
Ministry of Education and Employment (MEDE) (until 2020)
National Commission for Further and Higher Education (NCFHE) (until 2021)
To give young people an opportunity to continue their education and/or find employment.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
To enable learners to explore different vocational areas, MCAST launched in October 2016 the Skills kits programme, an introductory level programme at MQF/EQF level 1. The kits cover various vocational areas (such as art, hairdressing, beauty, basic web design, caring for others, animal care, sport, installation of low voltage devices, and cultures) as well as personal and employability skills. Each kit comprises 20 hours of instruction. Learners can choose the number of kits to study (up to...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST)
Examples of eligible activities within Don't BE disQUALIFIED (NedisKVALIFIKUJ SA!) call include:
creating and carrying out programmes aiming to develop competences complying with labour market requirements including ICT and financial literacy;
supporting second chance programmes, enabling adults to complete lower secondary education;
supporting inclusive education activities for people with special educational needs;
supporting young people experiencing difficulties with their employment;
...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Don't BE disQUALIFIED (NedisKVALIFIKUJ SA!) is the motto of a 2016 call for projects launched by the education ministry, focusing on key competence development and enhancing/upgrading skills. Project topics include continuing VET. Applications exceeded by two times the available ESF co-funded budget of EUR 15 million. 144 projects have been in progress since 2018, but have been delayed due to administrative complications. In 2017, EUR 7 million were allocated to ESF projects focusing on the...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth
Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport (until 2024)
The SKKR is expected to contribute to making the education and training system in Slovakia more flexible, while the qualification standards will be officially recognised. In addition to the three sub-frameworks corresponding to formal education and training, a fourth sub-framework driven by the labour market should be established. The SKKR will only be viable if this sub-framework is sustainably enriched.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The development of the SKKR has been a lengthy process. It progressed in parallel to the wider reform of VET and involved various stakeholders. Work on the SKKR and the national qualifications register (NQR) has been closely related: the description of qualifications, in terms of standards, forms the content of the register; their levelling is the content of the SKKR. Together with representatives of the sectoral council and other stakeholders, 1 000 qualifications, including standards, had...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth
State Institute of Vocational Education (ŠIOV)
Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport (until 2024)
Making education and qualification systems more flexible.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The so-called 'shortened studies' (ISCED 353) were put in place in 2015/16 in line with the Act on VET (61/2015). They target young people and adults who want to broaden or deepen their qualification or acquire another one to improve their employability. Based on the mainstream three-year programme, they focus on occupation-related areas and last either one or two years, depending on learners' previous field of study. Two-year studies lead to a certificate of apprenticeship; participants of...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth
Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family
Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport (until 2024)
To describe measures addressing identified weaknesses or suggested improvements.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In September 2017, the education ministry published the Learning Slovakia strategy paper, following a public discussion on a draft version from March 2017. The VET-related chapter of this strategy paper for the first time in the official documents clearly defines and distinguishes between the diverse forms of work-based learning: dual VET, as set in the 2015 Act on VET; work-based learning within VET school-enterprise agreements but without individual learning contracts; short-term...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport (until 2024)
To facilitate mobility of candidates and facilitate comparability of the national education system to other systems.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2014, learner performance in foreign languages (English language) at upper-secondary level, including VET, attested through matura exams, has been linked to the common European framework of reference for languages (CEFR). Other languages followed in 2017, so now certificates are issued for German, English, Spanish, French and Italian languages.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Science and Sport (MIZŠ) (until 2023)
Since there are no nationally determined VET programmes in municipal adult education, the objective has been to propose a cluster of courses that meet the competence requirements for different vocational areas.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In October 2016, the government commissioned the National Agency for Education to recommend vocational packages for adults. These packages are clusters of courses agreed with industry as entry points into the labour market. They will not only consist of partial qualifications, but also include building blocks that may be transferred and accumulated towards a full qualification. In April 2017, the mission was amended to include bridging programmes aimed at young people, mostly recently...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
The overall objective of the national strategy for validation is to ensure that significantly more individuals are able to have their knowledge and skills validated throughout the country at all levels of the education system and to have a broader range of qualifications in working life. Further, as a pathway to a qualification, validation should have the same high level of legitimacy as formal education.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2015, a National Delegation for Validation was appointed by the Swedish Government to follow up, support and promote coordinated development work in the area of validation at the regional and national level and to propose a national strategy for validation. The Delegation proposed a strategy in March 2017, expressing its view of the significance and function of validation, and of the development areas that need to be prioritised. A formal consultation on validation was launched by the...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
The national qualifications framework aims to increase employability and mobility in the labour market as it facilitates comparison of qualifications gained through studies and/or work experience.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The legal basis supporting the Swedish national qualifications framework (SeQF) came into force on 1 October 2015. The SeQF was referenced to the European qualifications framework (EQF) in June 2016 and can be considered to have reached (an early) operational status. It is operated by the National Agency for Higher Vocational Education assisted by a council comprising representatives from social partners, national education and employment agencies and student organisations. A register of...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
To determine whether competence tests may strengthen upper secondary vocational education for young people, adults and newly arrived migrants by increasing their labour market relevance and cooperation between the world of work and education, and by easing validation.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The National Agency for Education was commissioned in December 2016 to investigate if competence tests at the end of the programme may strengthen upper secondary vocational education by increasing their labour market relevance and by increasing cooperation between the world of work and VET.
In December 2017, the mandate of the National Agency for Education was amended to include a pilot phase to determine whether competence tests may also ease validation of adults' and newly arrived migrants'...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Allowing people who have gained their professional experience abroad to recognise their experience so that their educational or professional integration can be facilitated.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The National Agency for Education launched, in March 2018, a skills mapping web-based tool for persons who have experience in professional work, or equivalent experience, from other countries. The tool assists individuals to become aware of their skills, which in turn can shorten their study time and contribute to improved integration through access to the labour market. It provides information of core content and knowledge requirements for courses in the upper secondary education system in...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
The Action plan for adult education addresses four strands:
higher vocational education;
liberal adult education through folk high schools;
adult IVET and adult apprenticeship in IVET;
adults' right to general education.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Action plan for adult education (Kunskapslyftet, the knowledge boost) was introduced in 2015. It is aimed at supporting the Swedish government's goal of lowering unemployment rates. Relevant legislation/regulation and funding arrangements have been changed/adopted. The plan aims, at the same time, to address skilled labour shortages and enable people to (re)train.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
To improve the level of literacy, numeracy and digital skills of adults (the unemployed, employees and the inactive) with a low level of education and training and/or help them acquire at least an EQF level 1 qualification.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The 2015-20 lifelong learning strategy addressed the acquisition and validation of key competences that help early leavers from education to find jobs. The measures included revision of the validation methodology, quality assurance and training of staff in assessment centres of prior learning. The allocated financing allowed 45 000 adults to acquire key competences.
In order to facilitate access to upskilling for low-qualified adults, the labour ministry introduced EQF level 1 qualifications...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education
Ministry of National Education (until 2021)
Ministry of Labour and Social Solidarity
Ministry of Labour and Social Protection (until 2021)
To allow comparing the qualification levels of different countries using the EQF grid description based on learning outcomes.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Romanian national qualifications framework was referenced to the EQF in April 2018 and the next revision of the referencing report is foreseen to take place in 2023.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
National Qualifications Authority (ANC)
Ministry of Education
Ministry of National Education (until 2021)
Ministry of Labour and Social Solidarity
Ministry of Labour and Social Protection (until 2021)
To improve the quality of validation of non-formal and informal learning (VNFIL).
To improve the evidence-based approach to the validation of non-formal and informal learning by developing tools for collecting and analysing relevant data from the target groups.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2018, the regulatory framework for validation and recognition was revised with a view to introducing QA measures for validation and recognition. Specific criteria for certification of evaluator and external evaluator competences and additional requirements for assessment and certification, organised by the assessment centres, were introduced in legislation. By 2019, there were 37 fully functioning local assessment centres that could validate prior learning of candidates, mainly in...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education
Ministry of National Education (until 2021)
National Qualifications Authority (ANC)
Ministry of Labour and Social Solidarity
Ministry of Labour and Social Protection (until 2021)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The national qualifications system (Sistema Nacional de Qualificações, SNQ) aims (among others) to improve VET quality by promoting trainers' initial and continuing professional development (CPD) and enhancing their technical and pedagogical capacity. In this context, it was necessary to develop standards for initial and continuing training for trainers and tutors in the light of the new pedagogical approaches and technical developments.
In recent years, the country has developed and put in...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The 2015 Law introducing the Polish qualifications framework (PQF) provided a formal definition of validation and specified the requirements for bodies conducting validation and certification ('awarding bodies'), along with the principles for quality assurance in validation. An important element of this system is the ability to validate learning outcomes achieved outside of schools and higher education, including through non-formal and informal learning.
Also, new rules on the recognition of...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of National Education
Ministry of Education and Science (from 2021 until 2024)
The overall aim of the IQS is human capital development and support for lifelong learning, mainly by increasing the accessibility and quality of qualifications as well as allowing for qualifications to be compared and referenced to the EQF.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The PQF can be considered to have reached an operational stage: it was formally adopted by parliament on 22 December 2015 together with the establishment of the Integrated Qualifications System (IQS) and Integrated Qualifications Register (IQR) and came into force in January 2016.
While the Ministry of National Education is responsible for overall coordination, an advisory stakeholder council was set up in September 2016. An update on the referencing report was presented in December 2016. In...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
The Integrated skills strategy aims to provide a strategic approach to building, maintaining and using human capital to increase employment and economic growth, and to promote social inclusion and participation.
The main goals of the strategy are:
designing a coherent policy for shaping and developing skills;
coordinating the actions of stakeholders involved in supporting skills development;
ensuring equal access to information on the demand for, and supply of, skills, career counselling and...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2017, the education ministry initiated the development of a national skills strategy (integrated skills strategy - Zintegrowana Strategia Umiejetnosci - ZSU). The strategy covers the whole area of education and training, i.e. general education, vocational education, higher education and adult learning. It takes into account both demand (for specific competences and qualifications) and supply (availability of qualifications and competences in society). The general part of the strategy was...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of National Education (until 2021)
Ministry of Education and Science (from 2021 until 2024)
The main objectives of the project are to help adults develop key competences to improve their situation in the labour market; support various forms of adult learning; and encourage participation of adults in learning.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2017/18, the education ministry developed an ESF co-funded project to support 45 schools in becoming local centres for education and knowledge (lokalne osrodki wiedzy i edukacji - LOWE).
Beneficiary groups included adults with low levels of education, unemployed or economically inactive adults, adults aged 45+, and adults receiving certain forms of social assistance and family support.
The measures include diagnosis of participants' needs, vocational courses and other forms of adult...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Since 2016, expanded measures for NEETs have been provided to a large extent through the activities of labour offices at national and regional level, including ESF co-funded initiatives. This includes individualised comprehensive support through diagnosis and needs identification, vocational counselling and guidance, development of individual plans, job placement and various forms of support adjusted to the individual situation.
Labour offices are institutions providing vocational counselling...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
improving and modernising the education and training offer for adults with low levels of basic skills (literacy, numeracy, ICT skills);
improving adults' access to education, especially of those at risk of exclusion, and disadvantaged groups (e.g. migrants, older adults, unemployed);
raising adults' labour-market-relevant skills and competences and active participation in society.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
From October 2018 to December 2021, the Foundation for the Development of the Education System and the Educational Research Institute are implementing the CHANCE: new opportunities for adults project - a new upskilling pathways project; the Ministry of Investment and Economic Development (currently the Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy) is supervising this project, which is aligned with the Recommendation of the Council of the European Union of 19 December 2016 on upskilling...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Investment and Economic Development
Educational Research Institute (IBE)
Foundation for the Development of the Education System (FRSE)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The VPL system has been evaluated and, since 2016, the results have led to developing a new system in which there are two different paths for validating prior learning:
the labour market route;
the education route.
VPL tools are, for example, intake-assessment, e-portfolios, competence tests and ECVET elements. If a formal VPL procedure is followed, it can result in the award of an experience certificate (ervaringscertificaat). Since January 2016, an examination support body (servicepunt...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Culture and Science
Examination support body (Servicepunt Examinering) (until 2018)
Expertise centre for examination and education (Kennispunt Onderwijs en Examinering)
update skills and competences in an efficient and cost-effective way.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
A national coordination point for ECVET (NCP ECVET) was set up and became part of the Dutch partnership for lifelong learning on 1 January 2015. The Dutch NCP ECVET promotes the awareness and availability of ECVET principles by providing information and supporting implementation.
ECVET has been piloted in mobility projects where learning outcomes acquired abroad are transferred between the participating countries. In 2015, 10 pilot projects were run with the aim of supporting adult transition...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2015 and 2016, following letters to parliament on the progress of lifelong learning policy, the Cabinet announced its intention to make upper secondary VET and higher education programmes more flexible and tailor-made. This would be done through voucher experiments (pilots) in higher education and the introduction of certificates (parts of a full diploma/qualification) in upper secondary, non-publicly financed VET. The measures are intended to make VET more accessible for adults.
Private...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Culture and Science
Commission on demand-based funding VET (Commissie vraagfinanciering mbo)
Cooperation organisation for VET and the labour market (SBB)
improve the link between VET and the dynamics of the labour market;
ensure a better connection to higher professional education (HBO);
increase the quality of education;
increase student satisfaction and reduce dropout.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In a September 2015 policy letter (Kamerbrief met visie op mbo), the education ministry drew attention to 21st century skills, their relevance for VET and ways to develop them. The letter announced an evaluation of the implementation process of the renewed qualifications framework and its effect on VET courses in the years ahead, and to assess whether further steps were needed to adapt VET qualifications for the future. Qualifications already included key competences such as the Dutch and...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Cross-over qualifications combine elements of several qualifications from different domains to create innovative training programmes. The first application period for the experiment (pilot) in cross-over qualifications in MBOs lasted until 15 September 2016. Applications submitted before this date could offer cross-over qualifications in the school year 2017/18.
This initiative offered an alternative route for developing cross-over qualifications. Apart from the regular route where...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Culture and Science
Council for upper secondary VET schools (MBO Raad)
Cooperation organisation for VET and the labour market (SBB)
This policy development aims to improve the training provision within workplaces by ensuring the provision of the fundamental knowledge and skills to be able to train apprentices and contribute to the human capital development of an organisation as related to apprenticeships.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The in 2018 Work-based Learning and Apprenticeship Act stipulates that the VET provider is responsible for identifying and supervising the suitability of sponsors and trainers and ensuring that trainers must have sufficient technical experience, technical qualifications and personal competences. The act specifies technical qualifications as a certification recognised by the Malta qualifications framework (MQF) or by international qualification structures recognised by industry in a technical...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry for Education (MFED)(until 2022)
Ministry of Education and Employment (MEDE) (until 2020)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
A national team of ECVET experts is in place since 2014 to promote general understanding of ECVET principles and provide informative support to vocational schools.
In 2017-18, several seminars and an international conference were organised with the participation of ECVET experts on the practical application of ECVET principles. In 2018, ECVET National experts prepared the e-brochure Why ECVET, and organised a webinar addressed to representatives of vocational and adult education, teachers,...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
To promote a clear structure of qualifications and standards.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Latvian qualifications framework (LQF) is a comprehensive eight-level framework covering formal education and training, including VET. It is a framework for developing standards and qualifications, and promoting quality in education and training.
All VET diplomas include a reference to LQF.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The implementation plan adopted in June 2015 provides directions for improving the access to education and preventing early school leaving from general and vocational education, especially for young people subjected to social exclusion. Measures include scholarships in initial vocational education; a Youth guarantee scheme providing opportunity for young people to acquire a professional qualification in a short time (one to one-and-a-half year initial vocational education programmes);...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
To strengthen the role of advisory bodies supporting the development of quality IVET programmes in line with the needs of the labour market.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Social partners (employer and employee organisations) have been actively involved in the design of the implementing regulations of apprenticeship through participation in the sectoral expert councils. The 2017 amendments of the VET law strengthen the role of the councils in their various roles: promote cooperation between companies and schools; evaluate and collect information about the companies involved in apprenticeship; consult companies on issues related to apprenticeship; evaluate the...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
To facilitate the recognition of diplomas from third countries and their integration into education or onto the labour market.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
A regulation adopted in 2016 amends the recognition of diplomas or certificates acquired in third countries under certain conditions (which are not covered by the European convention on the equivalence of diplomas leading to admission to universities or the convention on the recognition of qualifications concerning higher education in the European region) as equivalent to national diplomas. The diploma must be delivered by a higher education institution recognised by the third country and...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The 2016 Law on the recognition of professional qualifications (transposition of Directive 2013/55/UE modifying the Directive 2005/36/EC) established the CLQ (National qualifications framework) as the formal reference point for recognition of professional qualifications acquired outside Luxembourg (apart from third countries). The law establishes the rules to be registered in the Register of vocational and training certificates (registre des titres professionnels et registre des titres de...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
to develop the assessment of a person's acquired competences to allow them to obtain a qualification;
to develop the assessment of general competences acquired by a person;
to develop a system for the recognition of foreign qualifications;
to monitor the assessment of a person's acquired competences.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2016, to address the problem that non-formal training for unemployed adults organised by the public employment service (the Lithuanian labour exchange) did not lead to formal qualifications, the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport agreed to enable validation and recognition of learning outcomes gained through such courses. That year, the employment service also began working on using modern methods of testing (ProfileXT) and tests in native languages to...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
implementing the recommendations of the European Parliament and Council on the establishment of a European credit system for vocational education and training (ECVET);
promoting the development and use of ECVET as a principle of lifelong learning as part of the Europe 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth;
promoting and developing the applicability and use of ECVET in Lithuania by adapting the relevant conditions and tools;
promoting the...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2014, national ECVET experts participated in public information activities and discussions with stakeholders in Lithuania, presented reports at events of the Education Exchanges Support Foundation,events at national VET institutions and at different events in Europe, and prepared information articles on ECVET. Experts also conducted ECVET-related training and guidance activities for representatives of VET providers, companies and other interested institutions, and began to advise...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
to ensure the quality of non-formal VET programmes and processes;
to establish a reliable and effective mechanism for the recognition of competences acquired through non-formal VET;
to create preconditions to provide the State with reliable knowledge about the scope of non-formal VET.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Until 2018, only formal VET programmes were registered in the State register of studies, training programmes and qualifications (SRSTPQ). On 22 November 2018, the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport issued a Description of the procedure for the preparation and registration of VET programmes and their modules. From then on, all VET programmes had to be registered, whether formal or non-formal, including CVET ones. Under this policy, formal VET schemes, prepared in accordance with the...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
The main goal of policy in this area is to make entry into VET programmes as accessible, understandable and transparent as possible in the age of digital technology and the internet. The aim is to create preconditions: make data on accession to programmes systematically organised, properly accounted for and easily comparable; ensure the transparency of the accession process; and facilitate and make the process of planning admission to VET programmes more effective.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In May 2017, the electronic system used for admission to higher-education establishments was extended to VET institutions, which had previously organised the admissions process on their own. Since then, the system has covered 19 universities, 21 colleges and more than 70 VET institutions. As in the past with traditional education, admission to VET institutions in the early years of the centralised system was organised only once, in the summer. However, as early as 2018 the decision was made...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
A systematic review of VET programmes and a transition to modular training, alongside the setting of new qualifications standards, have been viewed as essential steps to modernising the training of professionals to make the system as flexible and up-to-date as possible, while also abandoning obsolete and unprofitable programmes. The reorganisation of this area is aimed at enabling people more quickly to acquire attractive qualifications in the labour market and employers to obtain the...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In spring 2015, the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport decided that formal IVET and CVET programmes would consist of mandatory (85%) and elective (15%) modules grouped into introductory, professional and final categories. These would be competence-based and in line with sectoral qualifications standards, while a credit system would be introduced, with one academic year corresponding to 60 credits. More than 60 modular programmes were finalised by 2016, prepared by expert groups...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
The aim is to ensure the availability and quality of VET, that qualifications meet the country's economic needs, and the balance between supply and demand for specialists at the national and regional levels. Tasks include reorganising the network of State VET institutions; optimising the supply of VET programmes for the acquisition of first qualifications on a territorial basis; improving the provision of educational assistance in VET institutions; and ensuring high-quality access to VET.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
A 2017-20 action plan for lifelong learning was adopted by the Ministry of Education and Science in June 2017, and was later amended in December 2017. The plan replaced the former 2014-16 action plan for VET development and, in part, the 2014-16 action plan for non-formal adult education. It aimed to define objectives and measures for further development of systems for VET and lifelong learning, as well as the organisations responsible, and funds required and their sources (national budget...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Given the results of the analysis, the overall objective of recent policy developments are:
to provide alignment between skills demand and supply;
to strengthen skills supply either in the education and training system, improving school-work transitions, or in the labour market, improving continuous training of the workforce, with a view to preventing exclusion from the labour market;
to implement investments in innovative assets for the skills supply chain, such as 'digitalisation';
to...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
A National strategy for competences/skills has been launched based on the education and training (Good school) and labour (Jobs Act) reforms. Both reforms aim to improve the competences of young people and adults, including NEETs, and to provide new competences for the (long-term) unemployed and employees. The strategy also links skills with the labour market demand. As a result of the National strategy for competences/skills, cognitive (including basic skills), professional and particularly...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
To improve and strengthen VET and make it more attractive.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
For 2015-17, the main emphasis in the education ministry was the elaboration of proposals that a specific working group delivered in 2015. The main ideas of the working group were:
the school should be responsible for the training of learners throughout their studies, including the workplace training;
the basic education at the commencement of VET needs to be broader and more subjects need to be offered for those who have not yet decided what they would like to study;
to develop further the...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Science and Culture (until 2021)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2016, the National Office of VET and Adult Learning introduced VET framework curricula for vocational grammar schools. Designed by the working committees of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and based on national standards and examination requirements, the curricula, apart from vocational competences and skills, also include personal, interpersonal and methodological competences and set out appropriate learning methods.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Culture and Innovation
National Office for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Learning (NOVETAL)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The HuQF was referenced to the European qualifications framework (EQF) in February 2015. Consideration is being given to introducing qualifications acquired in non-formal learning contexts, as well as some remaining CVET qualifications, master craftsman, and postgraduate specialisation programmes. Strengthening the learning outcomes approach has been identified as a key area for further work.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Human Resources
Ministry of Culture and Innovation
National Office for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Learning (NOVETAL)
The policies are aimed at reducing the number of early leavers from vocational education and at people with no qualifications through a VET system that is flexible, provides quality and relevant training quickly can adapt to the technological changes of the fourth industrial revolution. In continuing training, the aim is to renew and strengthen the skills, competences and knowledge of adult workers.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The 2015 reform of the 2011 Act on VET enabled graduates of three-year VET programmes to automatically continue their studies in the same school for two additional years and to take the upper secondary school leaving examination (matura), which is the entry requirement for higher education. It also introduced the possibility of obtaining two State-recognised VET qualifications free of charge in vocational schools and higher vocational schools, instead of only one as previously. As a result,...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Culture and Innovation
National Office for Vocational Education and Training and Adult Learning (NOVETAL)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Law 4386/2016 opened certification procedures to all interested parties meeting prescribed eligibility criteria. For example, it provides the possibility for adults to obtain qualifications through certification of continuing vocational education and training (CVET) or forms of non-formal VET different from those of vocational training institutes (IEK).
Presidential decrees to put in place a national system for the certification of outputs have been drafted and are currently being reviewed....
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
National Organisation for Certification of Qualifications and Vocational Guidance (EOPPEP)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The HQF was referenced to the EQF in 2015 but self-certification against the qualifications framework for the European higher education area (EHEA) remains a challenge.
In 2017, a ministerial decision on a quality framework for VET curricula was adopted. The content of the decision included the definition of learning outcomes, the connection with occupational profiles and issues regarding the design of VET curricula.
Moreover, as a consequence of Law 4485/2017 (Official Gazette...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
National Organisation for Certification of Qualifications and Vocational Guidance (EOPPEP)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The legal framework for a skills needs forecasting system was established in 2016. EIEAD was given the mandate to coordinate the development of the Mechanism of labour market diagnosis. A coordination committee was put in place, consisting of representatives from the ministries of labour, education and economy, EOPPEP, the regions, OAED and social partners. The Mechanism was established in 2016. In 2017, its methodological framework (data collection and processing, procedures for mapping...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
National Institute of Labour and Human Resources (EIEAD)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The key element of the 2016 strategic framework was the design and implementation of the post-secondary apprenticeship year, which is offered by vocational upper secondary schools (EPAL). For the establishment of its regulatory basis, a demanding legislative process was needed (for example, through regulating the EPAL apprenticeship year, setting the quality framework for apprenticeships, introducing pilot apprenticeship programmes). Law 4610/2019 integrated all the amendments related to...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs
Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs
General Secretariat for VET, Lifelong Learning and Youth
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2017, the PIX platform was established as a free online public service used to assess, develop, and certify digital competences, intended for secondary and university students in initial education and training as well as workers.
Based on the DigComp 2, European skills reference framework, PIX offers all users the chance to determine their level of proficiency in 16 different skills/areas of competence.
These skills/areas of competence are: conducting research and information monitoring,...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of National Education, Higher Education and Research
Public non-profit organisation PIX
Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation
Ministry of National Education and Youth (until 2024)
Ministry of National Education, Youth and Sports (from 2020 till 2022)
The aim is to combat illiteracy and promote proficiency in the French language in three ways: partnerships between the State and local authorities, social partners, public institutions and the voluntary sector; preventative actions for those not subject to compulsory schooling and specific actions within the remit of vocational training policies; State assistance for the pooling of teaching resources and best practice.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2015, social partners created a professional certificate which recognises basic knowledge and skills needed for the workplace (Certificat de connaissances et de compétences professionnelles). To enhance training for illiterate individuals seeking to earn this certificate, nationally referred to as Cléa, the national agency for literacy (Agence nationale de lutte contre l'illettrisme, ANLCI) created a correspondence chart. This chart effectively links the competences from the ANLCI...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
The establishment of a framework improves the visibility of qualifications for all those involved in the training-employment relationship, by associating each vocational qualification with a level of qualification based on the grading criteria for the necessary professional skills. This is recognition for access to further studies and offers practical value for the market, aiding comparisons and mobility at national and international levels.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In the reporting period, work to adapt the current five-level structure of the French framework to the eight-level structure of the EQF was carried out. Article 31 of the 2018 Law for the freedom to choose one's professional future introduced a new vocational qualifications framework, which establishes the correspondence between the national five-level structure and the EQF levels. The EQF NCP for France is, as of 1 January 2019, hosted by France Compétences.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
It will make it possible to adapt reference bases more quickly when certain areas of competence are impacted by technological developments.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Skill sets are 'homogeneous and coherent sets of competencies that contribute to the autonomous exercise of a professional activity, which can be evaluated and validated'. Reforming vocational qualifications into skill sets (blocks de compétences) started in 2016. The first qualifications restructured into skill sets through legislation (decrees 2016-771, 2016-772 and 2016-1037) are the professional skills certificate (CAP, EQF level 3), the vocational baccalaureate (Bac-pro, EQF level 4)...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of National Education, Higher Education and Research
Ministry of Labour, Full Employment and Inclusion
Delegate Minister for VET under the education and labour ministers
France Compétences
Ministry of National Education and Youth (until 2024)
Ministry of National Education, Youth and Sports (from 2020 till 2022)
Ministry of Labour, Employment and Professional Integration (until 2022)
reduce inequalities in access to training for low qualified workers and ease (re)training and skills acquisition;
support the transformation of companies, building employee loyalty and improve risk prevention.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In July 2018, a report was published detailing the results of a pilot initiative launched in 2015 that explored new approaches for work-based learning through scheduled and guided on-the-job training. This pilot involved collaboration between the Ministry of Labour and stakeholders such as social partners, the National Employment, Training and Vocational Guidance Council (CNEFOP), the National Agency for the Improvement of Working Conditions (ANACT), and training funds (OPCAs). The...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Labour, Full Employment and Inclusion
Ministry of Labour, Employment and Professional Integration (until 2022)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In May 2016, the Finnish government launched an action plan for the better integration of immigrants in all types and levels of education, including vocational training. The plan, which is targeted at supporting immigrants, foresees an increase in the preparatory training for initial vocational qualifications (IVET) and competence-based qualifications (CVET). The general language proficiency requirement should no longer be an admission criterion for VET, but the education provider still...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The competence-based qualifications in Finland embed validation of non-formal and informal learning as an integral part of the entire CVET qualifications system. The system has been in place since 1994 and was further strengthened in 2007 and in 2015 by the Decree on individualisation. The Decree defines principles of validation more precisely than before. The CBQ system is very popular among the adult population in Finland with 100 000 learners involved each year. In IVET, validation is...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Act on the Finnish national framework for qualifications and other competence (Act 93/2017) and the related government Decree (120/2017) entered into force in March 2017. The framework covers the entire education/qualifications system. In this framework, the qualifications, syllabuses and other extensive competence modules of the Finnish national education system were classified into eight levels based on learning outcomes. The referencing to the EQF was completed in December 2017.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
As part of the 2018 reform the Ministry of Education confirmed in February 2017 the restructuring of vocational qualifications as of January 2019. The number of vocational qualifications has decreased from 351 to 164 (43 vocational qualifications, 65 further vocational qualifications and 56 specialist vocational qualifications). The new qualification structure, which is composed of broader qualifications, helps individual learners better organise their competence development in a more...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The was a need to strengthen the learning outcomes approach of vocational qualification requirements, the modular structure of qualifications, flexibility and individualisation in learning paths and validation of prior learning. In August 2015, the existing legislation on VET was amended to steer the IVET system to implement validation more effectively. The most drastic change was the shift from time-bound credit points to competence points, which show the relative importance of the unit of...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
There are multiple initiatives to raise the skills of young people and workers (employed or unemployed) in ICT and the digital economy. Different public bodies are involved, in some cases in partnership with industry.
Red.es, a public entity for the promotion of the information society, is currently in charge of the following schemes:
Digital professionals youth employment - this scheme is part of the digital agenda for Spain 2013-15, and is jointly funded by the European Social Fund (ESF)...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education and Vocational Training (until 2023)
Ministry of Education, Vocational Training and Sports
National Institute of Qualifications (INCUAL)
National Institute of Qualifications (INCUAL)
Red.es
The Spanish School of Industrial Organisation Foundation (EOI)
State Public Employment Service (SEPE)
State Foundation for Training in Employment (Fundae) until 2022
Reviewing the validation of informal and non-formal learning procedure regulated in RD 1224/2009 to make it simpler and easing access, as well as to meet validation needs of the different productive and service sectors.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Within the General Council for Vocational Training, a working group has been set up to review the results obtained during the almost 10 years of implementation of this procedure. Data are collected through a platform established by INCUAL. Validation is also carried out through the Reconoce project, launched in 2015 upon approval by the Spanish Youth Institute (INJUVE) and the youth departments of the Autonomous Communities. The project aimed to establish a new recognition system for...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education and Vocational Training (until 2023)
Ministry of Education, Vocational Training and Sports
The Strategic plan for vocational training aims to make VET more responsive to the needs of the productive system, meeting skills demands in a quick and prospective way.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The new government, in power since June 2018, reorganised the administration. The change of name in the education administration state, now the Education and Vocational Training ministry (previously Education, Culture and Sports), reflects the new strategy to promote VET. In October 2018, the Government presented the Strategic plan for vocational training under education authorities. In February 2019, the Council of Ministers published the Agenda for change (Agenda del Cambio). The agenda...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education and Vocational Training (until 2023)
Ministry of Education, Vocational Training and Sports
Recognition of prior learning and validation of work experience aims to increase the permeability of the education system and to smooth transitions between levels and types of education, and to the labour market.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The development of RPL is a part of the Adult education programme. Since 2015, the Ministry of Education and Research has been widening access to education through:
validation of previous experience;
insertion of recognition-related data into the education database;
more precise regulation for validating non-formal and informal learning in general education.
RPL principles have been developed and are regulated in higher education and vocational education acts.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
To improve the link between education/training and the labour market, to increase consistency in the education and qualifications system, to introduce common quality assurance criteria, and to support validation of non-formal and informal learning. As the Estonian qualifications framework is linked to the European qualifications framework, it makes it possible to compare Estonian occupational qualifications with those of other European countries that have completed the process of relating...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The EstQF was referenced to the EQF in 2011. Following the VET reform in 2013, the referencing report was revised and updated in 2016 to include developments in the education system.
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Since 2016, in line with the national priority for improving the quality of learning abroad, tasks previously performed by the ECVET national contact point have been carried out by the Erasmus+ National Agency (NA at BIBB). Contact persons at the National Agency and a team of national ECVET experts are in place. Both the National Agency and ECVET experts focus on supporting VET institutions in the use of ECVET in Erasmus+ transnational mobility projects. Among other activities, training...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
The German qualifications framework (DQR) was developed to make the German education system more transparent. Referencing the DQR to the European qualifications framework (EQF) makes it easier to compare qualifications, in Europe and in Germany. This supports the mobility of learners and workers.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2016, 21 qualifications from regulated further training were allocated to the DQR. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) commissioned a study on the use of the DQR by main target groups: learners, employees, employers, and education providers. The final report with recommendations for action was published in December 2016.
In 2017, for the first time, further vocational training qualifications were assigned to DQR levels 6 and 7. General education qualifications were...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)
Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs (KMK)
Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) (until December 2021)
Federal States (Länder)
Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK)
As part of the 'skilled workers strategy' of the Federal government, the aim of the law is to facilitate the immigration of skilled professionals, to ease their access to the labour market and to offer good prospects to specialised staff from non-EU countries.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs BMAS has drafted the Skills Immigration Act in December 2018, in the context of its Strategy to secure skilled labour. The Act features the following:
access for specialised staff from non-EU countries, along with recognised vocational training for all occupations, without restriction for bottleneck occupations;
measures for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications become more attractive and practical, including quicker, closer...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community (BMI) (until December 2021)
Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)
Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS)
Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB)
Federal Employment Agency (BA)
Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community (BMI)
Partial qualifications can be a subsequent path to a qualification for the target group of low-skilled adults (older than 25 years) and thus a perspective for qualified employment.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Partial qualifications (Teilqualifikationen, TQ) are educational offers, which allow learners to gain vocational qualifications through systematic, successive qualifications based on the dual training regulations. Once the total of the partial qualifications is completed, the learner can take an examination for external candidates. The work on procedures for certifications and the development of training modules is continuing. There are several current projects on TQ, including:
the employer...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Chambers of industry and commerce (IHKs)
Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)
Federal Employment Agency (BA)
Confederation of German Employers' Associations (BDA)
Association of the Educational Organisations of German Business (ADBW)
Central Office for Further Education in Skilled Crafts (ZWH e.V.)
to promote the validation of non-formally and informally acquired skills for people without (recognised) vocational qualification and expand any necessary adaptation qualifications, thus increasing skills visibility and opportunities for applicants on the job market;
ultimately, to set up a nationwide uniform validation system;
to simplify and accelerate the recognition of foreign formal vocational qualifications.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The ValiKom project aims to promote the validation of non-formally and informally acquired skills in Germany and was initiated by the German Confederation of Skilled Crafts (DHKT) and the German Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DIHK), together with the Federal Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF). ValiKom is considered a reference project for setting up a validation system in Germany. It addresses adults who acquired skills and competences through work but lack a formal...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)
Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB)
Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (DIHK)
German Confederation of Skilled Crafts (ZDH)
German Confederation of Chambers of Skilled Crafts (DHKT)
West German Association of Chambers of Skilled Crafts (WHKT)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The national project MOV (Modernisation of VET) aims at improving the quality of VET through modernising initial VET. The MOV project was launched on 1 May 2017. It focuses on the vocational and general components of secondary vocational education in order to promote the employability of graduates. It emphasises supporting students' key competences for employability, lifelong learning, linking IVET to CVET through the National register of qualifications, and cooperation with employers. The...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
National Institute for Education (until 2019)
National Pedagogical Institute of the Czech Republic
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In 2017, the Ministry of Education approved a proposal for revising the national curriculum for upper secondary education (RVP) and the educational programmes of individual schools (SVP). The revision of curriculum documents is among the national priorities until 2020.
The guiding principles for the revision process are permeability, quality, flexibility, learner orientation. Revision of the national curricula of IVET programmes, particularly the work-based learning elements in school-based...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports
National Pedagogical Institute of the Czech Republic
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Proposals for legislative and institutional changes aiming to improve the transition from school to labour market by extending the duration of in-company training; in EQF 4 programmes, workplace internship usually takes two weeks only, hence the proposal for extension to eight weeks.
Some schools, especially those offering hospitality and tourism programmes, have already extended the length of practical training in their curricula. Proposals prepared by the Pospolu project will be further...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports
National Institute for Education (until 2019)
Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic
National Pedagogical Institute of the Czech Republic
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The education ministry is coordinating the implementation of the project 'Establishing a mechanism for the validation of non-formal and informal learning'. The project is jointly funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) and the Republic of Cyprus. This project has supported a mapping study of the current situation in Cyprus on the validation of non-formal and informal learning. Based on this mapping study, an overall National action plan for the creation of mechanisms for the validation of...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth (MESY)
Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport and Youth (MoECSY) (until 2022)
Ministry of Education and Culture (MoEC) (until 2019)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The CyQF was referenced to the EQF in February 2017. A more thorough analysis of the System of Vocational Qualifications (SVQ) and how it is connected with formal education was presented to the EQF advisory group. The CyQF booklet, which provides full information on the CyQF and its social benefits, was prepared and circulated to all stakeholders. The implementation of the CyQF is progressing smoothly. The referencing report will be updated when there are changes in the Cyprus education...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport and Youth (MoECSY) (until 2022)
Ministry of Education and Culture (MoEC) (until 2019)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
On 18 May 2017, the Council of Ministers approved the establishment of the National Qualifications Authority, with the mandate to:
further improve quality assurance systems in education and training;
monitor and integrate in the CyQF the scheme for the validation of non-formal and informal learning after its completion;
monitor the CyQF/EQF levels on the certificates, diplomas and Europass documents;
further strengthen the legal aspect of CyQF;
develop a registry for the CyQF.
The National...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport and Youth (MoECSY) (until 2022)
Ministry of Education and Culture (MoEC) (until 2019)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The 2015-20 strategic plan for technical and vocational education and training provides for all initial vocational education and training (IVET) and continuing vocational education and training (CVET) curricula under the remit of the education ministry to be modularised and to use ECVET points to improve permeability. Modularisation and ECVET, along with recognition of prior learning, are expected to ease the access of people who completed the apprenticeship system and VET lifelong learning...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth (MESY)
Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport and Youth (MoECSY) (until 2022)
Ministry of Education and Culture (MoEC) (until 2019)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The 2015-20 VET development strategy addressed the acquisition of key competences in secondary VET for personal and professional needs. The 2015-20 VET development strategy aims to increase the number of adults taking part in training and to improve the attainment of qualifications and key competences, complementing their professional knowledge and skills. The 2015-17 action plan for this strategy foresees measures promoting key competences, such as career management skills. The 2015-20 VET...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The 2016 amendments of the VET Act regulate the structure of the State education standards for the acquisition of qualifications. The structuring of qualifications in terms of units of learning outcomes is the main principle of ECVET, providing flexible learning pathways. In 2017 and 2018, the number of the State education standards (SES) described as units of learning outcomes increased significantly. The SES were approved by orders of the education minister and were published in the...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education and Science
National Agency for Vocational Education and Training (NAVET)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Following the 2015-20 VET development strategy adopted in October 2014 (and the updated VET strategy in Bulgaria for the period 2019-21), the VET Act was amended, introducing the legislative basis for validation of prior learning in VET. Validation, using the State education standards (SES), can be carried out by VET providers for professions included in the national list of VET professions (LPVET), and could lead to qualifications at EQF levels 2 to 5. The procedures for partial validation...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
National Agency for Vocational Education and Training (NAVET)
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Since the academic year 2017/18, the EQF/NQF level of the occupation in which the qualification is acquired is stated in the completion documents: the 'vocational qualifications certificate' and the 'vocational training certificate for part of the profession'. This applies both for young and adult learners. Changes to legislation are still needed to support the setting up of the BQF. A working group has to be established to prepare these amendments. The framework is not yet operational. The...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Ministry of Education and Science
National Agency for Vocational Education and Training (NAVET)
Official and social recognition of professional competences (ensuring visibility to all skills of both workers and jobseekers older than 18 through certification, access to adult education and higher education, access to job orientation, and access to recruitment).
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In Adult Education, since 2017, the procedure for valorisation of acquired skills is framed by the decree of the Government of the French Community of 29 November 2017 (with reference to Article 8 of the decree of 16 April 1991 organising Adult Education). Valorisation aims to give access to courses for which learners do not have official prerequisite, to obtain exemptions from a part of a course or to obtain the certificate of the course in which they master the learning outcomes. The study...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
Skills Validation Consortium (CVDC)
Ministry of Vocational Training in the Brussels Region
Ministry of Vocational Training in the Walloon Region
To promote continuity and progressiveness within citizens' learning paths by:
facilitating the organisation of those paths between providers from education, training and competences accreditation;
facilitating joint paths between initial and lifelong training;
promoting, within each path, the recognition of formal and informal knowledge.
To strengthen the inherent quality of education, training and competences accreditation processes by ensuring each qualification matches perfectly...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Francophone qualifications framework for lifelong learning (CFC) was formally adopted in February 2015. A steering and positioning authority has been operational since 2016. This body is tasked with managing the implementation of the CFC, including positioning qualifications. In the first stage of implementation, only qualifications delivered by public providers will be included. The qualifications directory was opened in August 2017, making it possible to position qualifications for a...
Bodies responsible
This section lists main bodies that are responsible for the implementation of the policy development or for its specific parts or activities, as indicated in the regulatory acts. The responsibilities are usually explained in its description.
