The balance in achieving both excellence and inclusion in vocational education and training (VET) has been the priority of many European countries and the crux of recent political debate on VET. During Cedefop 17th Brussels seminar, the Hungarian Presidency brought another parameter into the equation: partnering VET with higher education to foster greater excellence and inclusive growth.
The seminar underscored the interconnected goals of excellence and inclusion within the European VET framework, and highlighted the essential role of strategic partnerships in achieving these objectives. It explored how national VET systems are addressing these priorities, drawing on insights from Cedefop’s monitoring of national implementation plans (NIPs) across EU Member States.
Hungary's innovative approach
Launched in 2020 as part of Hungary’s system-level VET reforms, the Hungarian Presidency showcased its certified technician programme as a prime example of integrating excellence and inclusivity into VET. The programme offers students an EQF level 5 vocational qualification alongside the maturita, enabling seamless progression to higher education.
Schools deliver this training in partnership with higher education institutions and, in some cases, dual training partners. This collaboration allows students to transition seamlessly to higher education dual training, maintaining their engagement with the same company where they held a vocational training contract. This approach fosters continuity and strengthens industry connections.
The programme features advanced curricula that emphasise excellence by targeting high-achieving students. Simultaneously, it promotes inclusion by offering flexible entry points after grade 10, ensuring accessibility to a broader range of learners.
The future of excellence and inclusion
Looking ahead, participants at the seminar predicted that excellence and inclusion will gain even greater significance in the EU VET framework beyond 2025, shaping the future of European VET.
As Europe continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern educational landscape, the need for strategic partnerships and innovative programmes is more critical than ever. These initiatives must combine excellence with inclusivity to enhance the appeal of VET, ensuring it remains a strong pillar of the continent’s educational and economic development.
