Denmark: major investments to reduce dropout rates in VET

In March 2025, the Danish government announced a comprehensive plan to improve vocational education and training (VET) significantly with the primary goal of reducing dropout rates and increasing the number of skilled workers in Denmark. To tackle the challenges faced by the VET system, the Danish government will allocate from 2030 around DKK 660 million (approximately EUR 88 million) annually to strengthen the quality and attractiveness of VET. Combined with earlier reforms, this will raise the investment per skilled worker by almost 50%, from DKK 240 000 to DK 350 000

Five key initiatives to reduce dropout rates and strengthen VET quality

• More flexible funding for VET schools. From 2030, VET schools will receive increased funding, giving them greater freedom to develop local solutions that improve student retention and learning environments.
• Improving youth environments. Between 2025 and 2030, DKK 500 million (EUR 67 million) will be invested in creating stronger and more supportive social communities on VET campuses.
• Upskilling teachers and using guest lecturers. DKK 100 million (EUR 13 million) will be allocated annually to improve teacher training and encourage VET schools to involve more guest lecturers from the industry.
• Closer links between schools and workplaces. VET schools must strengthen collaboration with companies, including regular visits to students during their workplace training.
• Boosting international mobility. By 2035, Denmark aims to increase fivefold the number of VET students training abroad, supported by financial incentives for schools.

The reform reflects a broader strategy to future-proof the Danish workforce against technological change, the demands of the green transition and demographic shifts. The government also stresses that VET schools will receive substantial untied funds, allowing them to design solutions that fit local situations and specific educational profiles.

The Danish Minister for Children and Education stated about this reform:

‘We have talked a lot about strengthening vocational education – now it is finally happening. With these reforms, we want more young people to choose VET, and we want to ensure that fewer drop out. Ultimately, this is a benefit for both the students and Danish companies.’

Read more

• Prepared for the future VII-Strengthening VET (in Danish)
• Press release with information on the reform
• Financial information on the reform's initiatives (in Danish)