Supporting lifelong learning culture and increasing participation
Lifelong learning refers to all learning (formal, non-formal or informal) taking place at all stages in life and resulting in an improvement or update in knowledge, skills, competences and attitudes or in participation in society from a personal, civic, cultural, social or employment-related perspective (Erasmus+, Glossary of terms, https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/programme-guide/part-d/glossary-common-terms). A systemic approach to CVET is crucial to ensure adaptability to evolving demands.
This broad thematic category looks at ways of creating opportunities and ensuring access to re-skilling and upskilling pathways, allowing individuals to progress smoothly in their learning throughout their lives with better permeability between general and vocational education and training, and better integration and compatibility between initial and continuing VET and with higher education. Individuals should be supported in acquiring and updating their skills and competences and navigating easily through education and training systems. Strategies and campaigns that promote VET and LLL as an attractive and high-quality pathway, providing quality lifelong guidance and tailored support to design learning and career paths, and various incentives (financial and non-financial) to attract and support participation in VET and LLL fall into this thematic category as well.
This thematic category also includes many initiatives on making VET inclusive and ensuring equal education and training opportunities for various groups of learners, regardless of their personal and economic background and place of residence – especially those at risk of disadvantage or exclusion, such as persons with disabilities, the low-skilled and low-qualified, minorities, migrants, refugees and others.
The objective of the Prison Education Taksforce is to ensure education and upskilling opportunities to support prisoner rehabilitation and employment, post release.
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 Prison Education Taskforce is co-chaired by the Minister for Law Reform and the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research Innovation and Science. The Taskforce includes representatives from both government departments, the Irish Prison Service, SOLAS (the national agency for Further Education and Training), the National Apprenticeship Office, the Probation Service, the University of Maynooth and former prisoners.
The Taskforce is implementing innovative approaches in prison...
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.
Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS)
The OCED report reviewed Ireland's existing National Skills Strategy to 2025 and how it may need to be adapted, identifying priorities and recommendations specifically for the Irish context. The report itself was not intended as an implementation plan, and further work was required by Irish stakeholders to progress the recommendations in the OECD report.
The National Skills Council (NSC) was established following the recommendations of the OECD Skills Review for Ireland, with the objective of...
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 review was conducted in partnership with the OECD. The review concentrated on four areas:
balance in skills;
lifelong learning;
innovation;
governance.
The report identified four priorities:
Priority 1: Securing a balance in skills through a responsive and diversified supply of skills.
Priority 2: Fostering greater participation in lifelong learning in and outside the workplace.
Priority 3: Leveraging skills to drive innovation and strengthen firm performance.
Priority 4: Strengthening skills...
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.
Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS)
The aim of the Construction Safety Licencing Bill is to reform and modernise the existing model for the sector, to make construction an even safer industry to work in, and to make the industry more attractive to future workers.
Safety skills will be embedded into worker skills development, and make safety management easier for employers.
The legislation will also recognise workers who are not qualified (either through apprenticeship or professional qualifications), but have relevant...
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 legislation was developed as a matter of urgency following targeted consultation with key construction industry stakeholders in 2022. The draft legislation was published in 2023 and is progressing through the Irish Parliament to pass into law.
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.
Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS)
The aim of the 'training-employment pathway' is to equip suitable job seekers with the skills they need to facilitate their integration into the workplace, either directly with the employer or elsewhere. The emphasis is on developing skills that bring real added value to the job market, and not just skills that are specific to the company applying for them. The pathway to employment combines the acquisition of technical skills, soft skills and in-company 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 'employment-training pathway' supports large Brussels companies (or clusters of smaller companies) that are planning to recruit at least eight people for specific positions and requiring training. These companies work with Bruxelles Formation to create a tailor-made training pathway.
The principle of the 'training-employment pathway' is the pooling of financial, human or material resources to pursue an objective inherent in the missions of Bruxelles Formation, and which takes the form...
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.
Bruxelles Formation (Brussels Institute for Vocational Training)
To adopt a learner-centred ethos and to tailor both learning and supports to meet the needs of learners, with consistent, integrated, and appropriate supports offered to all learners, in all FET settings. Thus, wherever possible the necessary supports should be available independently of the specific FET programme on which the learner is enrolled and engaged. This process can be aided by appropriate IT systems and, in line with the digital transformation and upgrading of infrastructure that...
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 position paper of this policy is underpinned by a Universal Design (UD) approach and aligns with the Public Sector Equality and Human Rights Duty.
The Framework to implement the policy outlines the enhancement of the overall learner experience within FET by:
develop & standardise supports and apply good practices;
integrate supports via Universal Design (UD);
technology to address support needs;
more consistent & reflective financial supports;
cross-FET Programme Independent Learner...
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.
Further Education and Training Authority (SOLAS)
Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI)
Cavan Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB)
City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB)
Cork Education and Training Board (CETB)
Donegal Education and Training Board (DETB)
Dublin Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board (DDLETB)
Kerry Education and Training Board (KETB)
Kilkenny Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB)
Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board (KWETB)
Laois Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB)
Longford Westmeath Education and Training Board (LWETB)
Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB)
Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB)
Mayo Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB)
Tipperary Education and Training Board (TETB)
Waterford Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB)
This is the first national Further Education & Training (FET) Strategy for the Green Transition and aims to shape the response and contribution of the sector towards meeting Ireland's climate action targets to halve Ireland's greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
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 strategy was developed by SOLAS, in partnership with consultants KPMG and in consultation with Ireland's sixteen (16) Education and Training Boards (ETBs), public bodies, government departments and key industry stakeholders. The strategy examines crucial sectors including construction, agriculture, transport, energy, hospitality, and finance, identifies critical skills gaps, and presents strategic and sector specific recommendations. The strategy also outlines ways in which FET can equip...
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.
Further Education and Training Authority (SOLAS)
Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS)
Community education takes a holistic, learner-centred approach and incorporates both formal and informal learning, addressing learners' personal development and building skills while offering educational opportunities through simplified pathways and the possibility of moving forward into the FET system and beyond. Community education fosters social cohesion and active citizenship, playing an important role in supporting a democratic society.
The Framework gives a foundation to help shape how...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Developing the framework was a collective and collaborative process by the whole of the FET sector, focussing on the needs of learners, who were also a key stakeholder and consulted during the process of drafting the framework.
A writing group was set up that included many different stakeholders in the FET Sector. This group was an important space to discuss ideas and challenges and was imperative for shaping the final content.
There was a 12-month development process, comprising four...
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.
Further Education and Training Authority (SOLAS)
Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS)
Department of Rural and Community Development
Pobal
Cavan Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB)
City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB)
Cork Education and Training Board (CETB)
Donegal Education and Training Board (DETB)
Dublin Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board (DDLETB)
Kerry Education and Training Board (KETB)
Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board (KWETB)
Kilkenny Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB)
Laois Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB)
Longford Westmeath Education and Training Board (LWETB)
Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB)
Mayo Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB)
Tipperary Education and Training Board (TETB)
Waterford Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB)
Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI)
Adult Learning Association (AONTAS)
Community Education Facilitators' Association (CEFA)
To highlight the opportunities for Vocational Education and Training organisations to enhance Transversal Skills through participation in Erasmus+ funded mobility projects and examine the value of Erasmus+ mobility opportunity as a mechanism for the acquisition of Transversal Skills for VET learners and staff.
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 above report was carried out under the direction of the National VET Team. VET Team is a national panel of key experts from across the Further Education and Training sector that advises Léargas on VET practice, policy, recognition and accreditation of skills. The purpose of the VET Team is to promote and support the implementation of EU VET tools in projects funded by Erasmus+.
The report explored the concept of transversal skills to establish consensus in terms of definition and identify...
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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.
In 2023, the Innovation and Collaboration fund opened for applications to progress the ALL Strategy.
As part of the application, projects had to evidence: collaboration and partnership between organisations; innovative approaches; meaningful benefits for adults with unmet literacy, numeracy and digital literacy needs; and good value for money and no duplication of work already happening.
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 2023 Innovation and Collaboration Fund was EUR 1 million, with the maximum grant of EUR 50 000.
Organisations that work in the public, not-for-profit, community and voluntary sector were eligible to apply. A minimum of two organisations working together in partnership were required to make an application, with one organisation as the lead applicant, and the other organisation(s) as the partner(s).
The target groups for the ALL Innovation and Collaboration Fund included:
older adults (55+),
...
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.
Further Education and Training Authority (SOLAS)
Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS)
Up-skilling of newly arrived immigrants so that they can be integrated in VET and 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.
In 2015, the government started consultations with social partners, the Public Employment Service (PES) and other government agencies to create fast tracks for newly arrived migrants and to reduce the time from arrival to entry in occupations that face skills shortages. An agreement involving employer and employee organisations assigned the PES responsibility for creating fast track paths for labour market integration. Employment services at local and regional level managed the programme for...
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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 project, 'Development of Lifelong Career Guidance and Counselling in Higher Vocational Education', aims to raise student's awareness of the importance of career planning and lifelong learning (LLL) for an effective entry and stay into the labour market. It also seeks to establish the professional foundations for developing a career counselling system in higher 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.
The project 'Development of Lifelong Career Guidance and Counselling in Higher Vocational Education' aims to enhance career counselling and support for students and graduates of higher vocational schools in Slovenia. Key activities include:
For students:
raising awareness of lifelong career guidance through workshops to develop skills for entering the job market;
establishing an e-learning platform for career counselling;
creating an online information hub, planning my career, aiming higher,
...
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 project aims to develop a national tool, to help forecast the VET related labour market needs. They intend to have two applications operational by the end of 2025: one for monitoring graduate employability and one for higher VET schools , containing enrolment data, grades, call deadlines, and exchanges.
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 tool will support the students making career decisions, provide the VET schools for the basis to adjust the open curriculum, and enable the entire VET system to modernise vocational standards and VET 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.
modernising regulations governing primary, secondary, and special education, while strengthening their human resources.
developing the"e-PROFESSIONAL" electronic platform for issuing decisions on the recognition of professional qualifications and professional equivalence of formal higher education qualifications.
addressing organisational and administrative matters of Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs).
enhancing the permanent staff of special...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Law 5128/2024 introduces key reforms to modernise education, vocational training, and qualification recognition in Greece. It focuses on expanding digital learning, strengthening career guidance, improving access to education, and enhancing vocational education and training (VET) and qualification recognition to align with evolving societal and labour market needs.
A key priority is the digital transformation of education. The law allows for the establishment of a digital educational portal...
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, Religious Affairs and Sports
To equip VET learners with skills related to ecological sustainability and renewable technologies, contributing to economic resilience and meeting ecological challenges in various industries.
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 2016 State-Regions partnership agreement, in September 2017, 500 new vocational training courses were introduced across VET upper secondary schools (lycées professionnels) with a strong emphasis on ecological transition. These programmes focus on skills related to renewable energy, sustainable building practices, waste management, and green technology, catering to emerging green jobs and addressing shortages in ecological professions, including welding, boiler-making, 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.
Ministry of National Education, Higher Education and Research
Ministry of Labour, Full Employment and Inclusion
Ministry of Labour, Employment and Professional Integration (until 2022)
Ministry of National Education, Youth and Sports (from 2020 till 2022)
Ministry of National Education and Youth (until 2024)
bring to the forefront the discussion and strategic direction of career guidance services on a national scale;
coordinate and enhance collaboration amongst career guidance stakeholders, including educational institutions, employment agencies, and industry partners, to ensure a unified national approach to career guidance;
equip career guidance practitioners with the knowledge and skills required to support career transitions in alignment with emerging labour market needs,...
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 Career Guidance Network (NCGN) seeks to comprise the guidance offices of all institutions as to create synergies in the provision of guidance and information, securing a seamless experience to clients. The NCGN plans to:
work closely with the National Skills Council (NSC) and existing service providers to promote VET pathways and to align career guidance services with national strategies, including those developed by the NSC;
create an interactive online platform 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.
Implementing ILAs backed by the new legislation and piloted using funds from European sources as a new instrument in support of adult learning by:
increasing access to education and learning;
reducing the costs of learning to inhabitants; and
securing quality of adult education funded by ILAs via quality check of providers.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Reflecting the LLCS 2030 recommendations the State Institute of Vocational Education prepared a comparative study focusing on new European policies, ILAs and microcredentials. The education ministry decided to cover ILAs and some segments of lifelong learning by new legislation and to pilot implementing ILAs making use of funding from Programme Slovakia 2021-27.
Bodies responsible
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Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth
According to the submission report to the law, the law aims to introduce system tools that will mitigate the effects of social and technological changes on people's lives. The education system needs to respond more flexibly to these changes to ensure that every citizen has lifelong access to opportunities to learn and develop their skills and competences, so that everyone can realise their potential in personal, professional and civil life. The law is intended to support flexible options for...
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 education ministry initiated new legislation instead of the originally proposed law on lifelong learning, which was previously recommended by the Lifelong learning and counselling strategy for 2021-30 and approved by the government. Although the strategy suggested drafting a new act on lifelong learning, the education ministry decided to submit an act on adult education. Since the development of comprehensive lifelong learning legislation covering learning from cradle to grave would...
Bodies responsible
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Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth
The long-term goal of the 2024-29 project is to address labour market gaps, reduce youth and adult inactivity and unemployment, and contribute to economic growth. Achieving this overall goal depends on progress in three areas related to the improvement of the response of the VET and lifelong learning to the labour market needs by systems' higher permeability and flexibility. Goals and specific outputs related to these areas are as follows:
Response of VET to the labour market needs is...
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 main activities of the project comply with the three aforementioned objectives and six measures. The Ministry of Investments, Regional Development and Informatisation (MIRRI) serves as the National Coordination Unit while the project operator is the State Institute of Vocational Education in partnership with the Swiss Federal University of Vocational Education. Switzerland has committed up to CHF 5 750 000 covering a maximum of 85% of the total eligible project expenditures over 55...
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 Investments, Regional Development and Informatisation
Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family
Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth
State Institute of Vocational Education (ŠIOV)
Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport (until 2024)
The National Plan for Labour, Occupational Safety and Employment 2021-27 outlines the strategic priorities and measures for labour market policy up to 2027, including specific actions for upskilling, guidance, and aligning education with labour market needs. The National Recovery and Resilience Plan 2021-26 acts complementary to the National Plan for Labour, Occupational Safety and Employment 2021-27, allocating additional targeted support for employment and upskilling.
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 Plan for Labour, Occupational Safety and Employment 2021-2027, under the objective Strengthening workforce competences, defines the following measures relevant for VET:
mapping skills relevant to the labour market as a basis for developing educational programmes and awarding vouchers;
identifying workforce skills to support lifelong guidance and career development;
developing occupational standards in line with the Croatian Qualifications Framework to align education with labour...
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, Pension System, Family and Social Policy (MROSP)
The National Education System Development Plan defines the strategic priorities and measures for education at all levels for the period up to 2027, including specific measures for IVET and adult education, based on the analysis of development needs and challenges for each priority.
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 response to the challenges affecting VET, the National Education System Development Plan for the period up to 2027 proposes a number of measures, building on key reform initiatives from the previous strategic period. The specific measures related to VET (Area 3 of the Plan) include:
3.1. Continuing the VET curricula reform and introducing new modular, outcome-oriented curricula to VET providers.
3.2. Supporting VET providers in implementing new curricula, programme profiling, and aligning...
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 Policy for the Digital Transformation of Education meets the priorities adopted in the EU policy initiative 'Digital Education Action Plan for 2021-2027'. One of the basic goals of digital education indicated in the Polish strategy is 'preparing for the effective, safe and responsible use of available digital resources, as well as motivating to learn, providing competences that enable creativity and the ability to develop talents and interests, rather than passively using available tools...
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 Policy for the Digital Transformation of Education describes the actions necessary in the face of the digital revolution and sets the framework for state policy in the area of the digitalisation of education in the following time perspectives: short-term (until 2027), medium-term (until 2030) and long-term (until 2035 ).
It comprises two complementary perspectives: developing digital competences of students and teachers, using digital technologies to strengthen...
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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 of the Database is to link supply and demand for further education in one platform and to simplify processing of financial support for further education of training participants through the Labour Office of the Czech Republic.
The Database also supports development of career management skills of individuals. It helps people to choose the right course according to their interests, needs and abilities.
The aim of the Database pilot which will be conducted during 2023-2025 is to:
expand...
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 target groups of the Database include all the adults with links to the labour market (including students aged 18+ who are preparing to enter the labour market). The Labour Office has expanded its activities beyond unemployed persons to include those who are in employment and want to acquire the competencies needed to retain their current jobs. Additional target groups include persons on parental leave, self-employed persons and senior citizens with links to the labour market (working...
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The overall objective of the strategy is to increase the share of adults participating in lifelong learning to 12% by 2027 through more and better formal, non-formal and informal learning.
The specific objectives of the strategy 2024-2027 are:
intensification of the role of partners/partnerships for the support and development of the strategic framework for adults' professional training,
improving personalised / tailored - made and specific learning offers,
facilitating adults' access 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.
The strategy was developed with the support of EU funding (Erasmus+ 101051428-SNFA-ERASMUS-EDU-2021-AL-AGENDA-IBA).
During the design phase, the labour ministry consulted employers, professional training providers, social partners, regional employment agencies, and NGOs.
The cooperation pillar focuses on updating legislation and strengthening the role of partnerships in adult training, alongside capacity building for training providers.
The personalised learning pillar promotes flexible...
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 Solidarity
Ministry of Education
National Centre for TVET Development (CNDIPT)
National Qualifications Authority (ANC)
National Agency for Employment (ANOFM)
Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Tourism
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
Ministry of European Investments and Projects
National Institute for Scientific Research in the Field of Labour and Social protection (INCSMPS)
The government aims to contribute to achieving SDG 13 (take urgent action to combat climate change and its impact) by:
reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55-60%;
achieving 1 million professionals educated in ICT by 2030, focusing on skills and knowledge relevant to implementing sustainable digital technologies, promoting energy-efficient solutions, and aligning with the content outlined in the policy's development framework.
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 advance efforts in urgently combating climate change and its impacts, in 2023 the government introduced the 'National Programme for Circular Economy 2023-2030'. The ambition laid down in this programme is to become a circular economy by 2050. In all parts of the economy and society initiatives will be developed, amongst which education and labour market. Labour market ambitions are outlined in the 'Action Plan for Green and Digital Jobs', by Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate...
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The government's main goal for the integration work is to get more people into work, build strong communities and good community arenas, promote equality, and combat negative social control. The government aims for a policy where society both makes demands and offers opportunities. Adults granted residence in Norway must, as quickly as possible, become part of and contribute to society on an equal basis with everyone else. Immigrants must experience that they meet the same expectations, 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.
The government wanted to examine possible changes to the Integration Act in 2024 to enable more people to complete upper secondary education (EQF 4), especially vocational education and training (an alternative not a full EQF qualification but a certificate of competence for a vocation (EQF3)), within the framework of the introduction programme. This includes making greater use of the recognition of prior learning and considering a longer duration of the programme for a larger number of...
Bodies responsible
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Ministry of Labour and Social Inclusion
Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills
The overarching aim of the White Paper is to contribute to high employment and to cover the most important skills needs in working and social life. The White Paper points to the most important competence needs going forward and explains the government's measures.
The government prioritises the following areas in its education and skills policy going forward:
skills necessary for a highly productive and competitive business life;
skills necessary to carry out the green shift;
skills necessary 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.
The White Paper details the government's policy in the following areas:
dimensioning of the education system;
access to education throughout the country;
funding of universities and colleges;
learning in working life;
qualification of the labour force reserve;
use of skills from abroad.
For IVET and CVET, this means:
Dimensioning
The county authorities are responsible for upper secondary and higher vocational education. At the upper secondary level, the county municipalities must balance factors...
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In response to these challenges, Law No 5082/2024 was developed as a comprehensive strategy to modernise Greece's vocational training system, encourage higher participation in apprenticeships, and strengthen digital skills development. These measures aim to improve employability, enhance workforce adaptability, and boost economic competitiveness in a rapidly evolving labour market.
Main objectives of the new legal framework:
Enhancing the governance structure of Vocational Education 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.
Law No 5082/2024, published in Government Gazette A 9/19.1.2024 and titled 'Strengthening the National System of Vocational Education and Training and Other Urgent Provisions', aims to further enhance the National system of vocational education and training (VET) established under Article 1 of Law No 4763/2020 (A 254). This objective will be achieved by:
expanding collaboration between vocational education and training institutions, and
strengthening synergies between different levels of 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 Religious Affairs
Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports
The short CVET programmes allow adults to adapt to new technologies and the constantly changing job market (upskilling) and to retrain in a different profession (reskilling). They target a diverse audience in terms of qualification levels, industry sectors, language skills, or employment status.
The Skillsbridges aim to promote digital inclusion, making digital technology accessible to everyone. They also focus on skills for the green transition. The subjects of the training programmes were...
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The programmes are designed to develop targeted skills that can be immediately applied in practice. Short in duration, they vary from 40 to 240 hours. Courses are provided by the National Centres for Continuing Vocational Education and Training (CNFPC), either in-person or through blended learning. Certification is issued upon successful completion, by the Ministry of National Education, Children and Youth's VET department and the CNFPC.
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, Children and Youth
National Centre for Continuing Vocational Training (CNFPC)
expand access to wide range training for working-age adults;
ensure ownership of adult learners in training based on their own and labour market needs;
keep individuals' training entitlements even when they change jobs,
reduce dependence of adult training choices on employer approval and financing;
strengthen involvement of social partners in training provision.
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The pilot implementation takes place in the construction sector. It involves an analysis of existing ILA schemes in Europe and national feasibility study, simulations, an online portal (linked to the existing training provider authorisation platform), promotional campaigns, and a study on the use of ILA.
ESF+ and other funds are to support the implementation as of 2025. The implementation will initially last until 2027.
Main beneficiaries of ILA are the construction sector employees and...
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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 Solidarity
National Agency for Employment (ANOFM)
National Institute for Scientific Research in the Field of Labour and Social protection (INCSMPS)
The aim of the federal government's Strategy for research, technology and innovation is to increase the proportion of graduates in STEM subjects by 20% and the proportion of women amongst graduates in technical subjects by 5% by 2030. The Join in STEM action plan is designed to facilitate the achievement of these ambitious goals, while also pursuing the following objectives, to:
foster greater interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among young people,
showcase...
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Join in STEM action plan represents the Ministry of Education's STEM skilled labour initiative. The plan consolidates the ministry's existing STEM initiatives with new measures and addresses the entire education sector, from early childhood education to vocational training, secondary education, and higher education.
The action plan strengthens STEM capabilities and advances the aforementioned objectives through the following eight action lines:
intensification of regional networking...
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, Science and Research (BMBWF)
The purpose is to increase equity for individuals lacking a corresponding Swedish primary education or missing the prerequisite knowledge for the upper secondary level, by preparing learners for upper secondary education or enabling them to secure employment.
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Swedish National Agency for Education will develop vocational courses at a basic level (EQF level 2). These courses will provide fundamental vocational skills, include practical elements, and are counted as partial qualifications which can lead to complete a qualification at lower secondary level, providing access to programmes at upper secondary level (EQF level 4). The courses should meet the skills needs of different industries and be able to lead to work after completing the training...
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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 objective of National Vocational Education for adults at upper secondary level (NVE) is to strengthen the connection between the skills needs of working life and VET for a faster establishment on 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.
NVE programmes last between six months and one and a half years and can lead to a qualification at SeQF level 4 (EQF level 4), when programmes last at least one year. To gain access to the programmes, the entry requirements are pass grades from secondary education or for learners to have their prior learning validated. The NVE programmes have flexible opportunities for learners to validate prior learning for exemptions, and thereby shorten the time in training. Students are entitled 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.
The new operational guidance for VET providers aims to create a model that would increase the effectiveness of VET and the agility of VET providers to match the labour market needs. The specificities of VET in Swedish and expanding sports at upper secondary level need to be considered.
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 operational guidance for VET providers requires legislative changes and is prepared together with the reform of VET funding system to make sure that the new funding and guidance models create a coherent whole.
Approximately 40 VET providers will pilot the new operational guidance model in 2026-33. They will be able to provide qualifications more freely and without individual authorisations granted by the Ministry of Education and Culture. These VET providers will also be able to...
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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.
clarify and unify the chain of support for learning from early childhood education and care to upper secondary education;
clarify the relationship between special needs support and other forms of support for learning;
strengthen the cooperation between special education teachers, vocational teachers and other guidance staff, and increase the competence in special needs support;
make the identification of special needs support faster and more...
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The reform of the support for learning is based on the government programme that came into effect in 2023. The reform covers all levels of education from early childhood education and care to upper secondary education. The reform requires legislative changes, and the implementation is supported by the Finnish National Agency for Education. The implementation is also supported by government grants to help VET providers to develop special needs support in their own organisations and in...
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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 Agenda for VET 2023-27 'Working together on talent' outlines the strategic vision and key objectives for vocational education and training (VET) in the Netherlands for the years 2023-27. There are three main priorities, each of which has three to five specific objectives:
Equal opportunities:
Contributing to the equal treatment of all students in the Netherlands.
Improving student welfare and strengthen (integral) safety in schools and learning companies. Increasing the accessibility of...
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Agenda for VET Working Together on Talent is a covenant signed in 2023 by eight key VET stakeholders: the education ministry, Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNG), Association of Educators in VET (BVMBO), National youth organisation for VET students (JOB), Cooperation organisation for VET and the labour market (SBB), Council for private providers of education and training (NRTO), Council for upper secondary VET schools (MBO Raad) and the National association of employers...
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 private providers of education and training (NRTO)
National association of employers (VNO-NCW/MKB Nederland)
Council for upper secondary VET schools (MBO Raad)
Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNG)
Association of Educators in VET (BVMBO)
Cooperation organisation for VET and the labour market (SBB)
National youth organization for VET students (JOB)
The main objectives of project in cooperation with the OECD are:
to identify the main opportunities regarding skills in Bulgaria;
to develop tailored policy recommendations for improving Bulgaria's skills performance with the participation of the whole government, in collaboration with all ministries and stakeholders.
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The cooperation with the OECD, with its methodology for skills strategies, is an action decided in the context of the proposals of the European Skills Agenda in relation to national skills strategies. More precisely, the European skills agenda recommends joint action by the Commission and EU Member States to develop national skills strategies based on the relevant OECD methodology.
Activities related to the development of the skills strategy are also reflected in the national documents within...
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The implementation of the project will support the development of the VET system.
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 Modernisation of vocational education and training (VET) (hereinafter Modernisation of VET) project is co-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) through the operational programme Education 2021 -27 with direct beneficiary the education ministry. This project is designed to contribute to make VET more agile, responsive to labour market needs and to enhance its attractiveness. The education ministry manages the project activities and ensures the institutionalisation of key developments....
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)
The key goals and objectives for introducing ILAs in Bulgaria are:
to increase adult participation in learning;
to reduce skills shortages;
to establish a sustainable funding mechanism supporting lifelong learning;
to pilot sector-specific programmes as small-scale pilots, initially targeting specific sectors, with the goal of expanding to other sectors and occupations;
to establish a governance structure with the participation from ministries, social partners, and sectoral skills councils...
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
To facilitate the introduction of individual learning accounts (ILAs) in Bulgaria, the Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association (BICA), developed two pilot models for ILAs.
According to the first model employers may create individual accounts for their employees. These accounts record the qualifications and skills gained through training. It encourages' enterprises to invest in their employees by contributing to these accounts.
The second model envisaged sectoral funds or one state fund 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.
Developing human resources and capacity building of entities involved in providing care to older adults through the development of training courses aimed at upskilling and reskilling workers and unemployed individuals seeking entry into the labour market in this sector of the economy.
Improving the value of informal caregivers of old adults through their training and capacity-building to provide differentiated care.
Adding value to the provision of care by sharing good practices through...
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In response to the challenges facing the aged care sector, the centre for training in caring for old people (Centro de Competências para o Envelhecimento Ativo - CCEA) was created, through a partnership between the Institute of Employment and Vocational Training, the Association for the Development of the Algarve Biomedical Research and Training Academic Centre and the Social Security Institute. The responsibilities of the CCEA, with the aim to empower care providers for older adults, are 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.
Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP)
Association for the Development of the Algarve Biomedical Research and Training Academic Centre (AD-ABC)
to improve workers' qualifications in the industrial sectors, which will help them in their professional development, reskilling, and employability;
to prevent the risk of unemployment, promote job retention, and improve the productivity and competitiveness of companies and the economy;
to modernise the industrial sector when companies experience decreased productive activity due to unforeseen market conditions.
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
It consists of financial support for upskilling and reskilling training plans of workers of SME businesses in industries experiencing reduced orders or less turnover. A budget allocation of EUR 10 million covers salary costs and sector-specific training.
Employers can submit applications for training projects directly or through the appropriate associations representing employers and businesses at sectoral, regional, and national levels. To be eligible for financial support, the training plan...
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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)
The objective of this policy development are to ensure that students and apprentices know their rights, what they can do and where they can get help if they experience sexual harassment or other offensive actions.
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The Danish Agency for Education and Quality (STUK) took a series of actions (e.g., preparing guidance material for apprenticeship learners, VET providers, teachers and administrative staff at VET schools) as part of an information campaign on the rights of apprentices who have experienced offensive actions, including bullying and sexual harassment.
As part of this campaign, all relevant information is available at all VET schools in Denmark. Through QR codes on posters, students and...
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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 operate an educational institution outside the major cities;
to allow students across the country access to a wide range of high-quality, sustainable secondary education close to where they live.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Higher commercial examination (HHX) has become an increasingly popular option for Danish youths (upper secondary learners) during the last few years. Simultaneously, because of declining youth cohorts, it has become more difficult to offer higher commercial examination and higher technical examination (HTX) programmes in rural areas. Therefore, the government via the education ministry, together with the parties behind the Finance Act 2024, has allocated a special grant of in total EUR 670...
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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 goal of the pilot programme is to address the diverse needs and motivations of young people while testing whether a teaching approach focused on connecting lower secondary school learners (or primary school learners in the Danish context) with VET can better support them in completing basic education and applying for VET programmes after grade 9.
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 pilot programme is a continuation of the previous framework experiment with EUD 8/9 (VET 8/9), which originated from the political agreement, From primary school to skilled worker - vocational education for the future, in November 2018.
Selected grades 8 and 9 earners may follow a reduced curriculum in lower secondary school (primary school in the Danish context) while also participating in hands-on VET electives. The target group of the programme is learners with special needs who are at...
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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 objective of the plan and its initiatives is to create a more coherent national educational landscape.
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The coherent plan for the education system consists of different reforms and initiatives across the entire education system thus targeting a wide array of groups. Although the plan is not an explicit national implementation plan (NIP) measure, many of its initiatives could be considered relevant touching upon various EU priorities. More precisely the intervention areas are the following:
Prepared for the future I - new flexible university paths.This reform aims to provide students with new...
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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 key objectives are to improve VET provision so that students acquire the right skillset for the green transition; and to enhance VET attractiveness.
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 Prepared for the future IV - more skilled workers for the green transition agreement is a component of a holistic education reform plan encompassing various education levels. The Prepared for the future IV - more skilled workers for the green transition agreement includes several key elements to ensure more skilled workers for the green transition. It is divided into two main areas: one focusing on the green transition and the other on making VET more attractive.
Making VET more...
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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.
Based on the online job advertisements analysis, the report was to capture the jobs and skills most in demand by employers and to identify career pathways, particularly for those whose employment has been impacted by COVID-19.
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
The research report analyses the state of the Irish labour market through job advertisements, particularly looking at job displacements resulting from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors, such as digitalisation. Using a skills adjacency model, the report highlights reskilling and upskilling opportunities to help displaced workers get back to employment. It focuses on possibility (skill overlap between occupations), feasibility (similar education requirements and stable or...
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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 published policy platform Progressing A Unified Tertiary System for Learning, Skills and Knowledge outlines 35 key objectives that could be summarised as follows.
Learning and Development Opportunities: creation of HE/FET collaborative programmes through the development of more collaborative approaches to programme planning, development and delivery across the sectors;
Inclusion: development of more unified frameworks across FET, HE and research and innovation (R&I) to progress equality,...
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Creating a unified tertiary system is one of the strategic priorities of the National FET strategy 2020-24. Key stakeholders, DES, Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI), SOLAS (the national authority for FET), Higher Education Authority (HEA), Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI), the Technological Higher Education Association (THEA) and the Irish Universities Association (IUA) agreed on an action plan to work towards a more strategic and consistent transitions approach to FET 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.
Further Education and Training Authority (SOLAS)
Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS)
Higher Education Authority (HEA)
Technological Higher Education Association (THEA)
Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI)
Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI)
Irish Universities Association (IUA)
City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB)
Cavan Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB)
Cork Education and Training Board (CETB)
Donegal Education and Training Board (DETB)
Dublin Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board (DDLETB)
Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB)
Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board (KWETB)
Kerry Education and Training Board (KETB)
Kilkenny Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB)
Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB)
Longford Westmeath Education and Training Board (LWETB)
Laois Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB)
Limerick Clare Education and Training Board (LCETB)
Mayo Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB)
Tipperary Education and Training Board (TETB)
Waterford Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB)
The Action Plan aims to deliver an apprenticeship system that is flexible and responsive, providing a strong value proposition for employers and potential apprentices, attractive and easy to engage with, and delivers high standards and sought after qualifications.
The main objectives of the plan are:
a high quality and innovative approach - apprenticeship will deliver the highest quality of work-based learning (WBL), supporting and demonstrating innovation to empower apprentices and employers...
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Ireland's Action Plan for Apprenticeship 2021-25 was launched in 2021 by the Ministers for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and the Minister of State for Skills and Further Education. The plan aims to expand the types of programmes available and increase the number of apprenticeships to 10 000 per year by 2025. The plan is to ensure equity of access by creating simplified routes to entry, and improved flexibility within the system so that underrepresented 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.
Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS)
Green skills for life: creating awareness of climate justice, sustainability and bioeconomic issues across VET learners and staff.
Green skills for construction: training and upskilling individuals in construction occupations in the latest green technologies.
Green skills for careers: creating career opportunities in the green economy for the employed, unemployed and those in vulnerable 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.
The policy roadmap 'Green Skills for FET 2021-30' sets a strategic direction for green skills initiatives throughout the Irish FET sector and points to key areas for the FET Sector in the transition to a green economy. The policy incorporates the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), the Green skills action plan and responds to some other national policies and legislation, e.g. Skills for zero carbon (2021), Future Jobs Ireland (2019) and the Action plan for apprenticeships 2021-25....
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.
Further Education and Training Authority (SOLAS)
Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS)
Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications
Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI)
Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI)
City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB)
Cavan Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB)
Cork Education and Training Board (CETB)
Dublin Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board (DDLETB)
Donegal Education and Training Board (DETB)
Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board (KWETB)
Kilkenny Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB)
Laois Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB)
Longford Westmeath Education and Training Board (LWETB)
Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB)
Mayo Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB)
Kerry Education and Training Board (KETB)
Limerick Clare Education and Training Board (LCETB)
Tipperary Education and Training Board (TETB)
Waterford Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB)
Improving the quality of adult learning in Europe by internationalising adult learning and training organisations, including VET, and the professional development of their staff.
Building communities of practice in various fields of adult learning, including vocational education and training, and between all stakeholders such as teachers and policy makers.
Facilitating the creation and sharing of (open) educational resources that can be used in adult learning, including the use of new...
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What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
In Poland, the activities of the EPALE platform are the responsibility of the Foundation for the Development of the Education System, commissioned by the Ministry of Education and Science.
The European EPALE platform has been operating since October 2014. From the beginning, it has been available in the Polish language. The current contract for the implementation of the project by the EPALE national office covers the period from April 2022 to the end of 2024.
Bodies responsible
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Ministry of Education and Science (from 2021 until 2024)
Ministry of National Education
Foundation for the Development of the Education System (FRSE)
setting up a national team of experts for vocational education and training;
providing support to beneficiaries in implementing EU tools related to vocational education and training (VET).
Its mission is to improve the quality of VET and to support the cooperation of vocational schools with employers in Poland and Europe. The team also serves higher education, especially State higher vocational schools in practical 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 2021, the Foundation for the Development of the Education System began providing organisational services to the Team of Experts for Vocational Education and Training (EVET) nominated by the Ministry of Education and Science. They work closely with the National Europass and Euroguidance Centre, also run by the Foundation. The Team's main tasks include promoting and advising on the practical application of EU instruments related to supporting educational mobility, ensuring high-quality...
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
Foundation for the Development of the Education System (FRSE)
Ministry of Education and Science (from 2021 until 2024)
creation of 120 sectoral skills centres (SSCs), which will be centres of education, training and examination;
training of a total of 24 000 people, of which at least 60% are adults, at least 20% young people, and at least 10% vocational education teachers who have completed sectoral training;
introduction of appropriate changes to regulations.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Sectoral skills centres (branzowe centra umiejetnosci) are to be technologically advanced education, training and examination centres in a given industry.
This initiative comprises the following main activities:
announcement by the Foundation for the Development of the Education System (FRSE) of a competition for the establishment and support for the operation of 120 sectoral skills centres implementing the concept of centres of vocational excellence (CoVEs);
construction of a new...
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 (from 2021 until 2024)
Ministry of National Education
Foundation for the Development of the Education System (FRSE)
increasing the share of graduates holding a certificate about the need for special education on the labour market;
preparation of specialists - professional consultants to work with and for SEN learners.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Changing the system of vocational preparation of SEN learners (including disabilities) for active participation in social and professional life by:
diagnosis of the functioning of vocational education for SEN learners;
development, in cooperation with employers and other social partners, recommendations for programme changes in vocational education of SEN learners;
identification of the needs of the labour market and the possibility of expanding the vocational education offer for SEN...
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
Educational Research Institute (IBE)
Ministry of Education and Science (from 2021 until 2024)
To provide education and care to Ukrainian students migrating to Poland due to armed conflict in Ukraine.
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 a result of the armed conflict in Ukraine, the Ministry of Education and Science issued several regulations in response to the need to provide adequate education and care for Ukrainian children and young people migrating to Poland.
The regulations allowed:
the head of a unit of the education system in the area of selected districts (poviats) of the eastern border to suspend all or individual classes (with the consent of the body managing the unit and the body exercising pedagogical...
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 (from 2021 until 2024)
Adapting the VET offer to the needs of the green transition through increasing and promoting CVET offer, introducing new green IVET programmes and occupation-specific green skills in the existing programmes; piloting transversal skills, e.g. circular economy.
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 Centre for Continuing Vocational Training (CNFPC) has modernised its infrastructure (workshops, labs, training spaces) and offer to include new courses focusing on Industry 4.0 and green skills, such as Waste management, Circular economy, Building engineering, Energy efficiency and Forestry.
Some new IVET programmes in green and digital occupations have been introduced, such as the technician diplomas, Smart buildings and energies (EQF 4) and Smart technologies (EQF4). In...
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VET Department of the Ministry of Education, Children and Youth (SFP)
National Centre for Continuing Vocational Training (CNFPC)
To reduce the digital skills gap and to address the shortage in highly skilled ICT professionals in Luxembourg.
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 DLH is located in the south of Luxembourg. On its 700 m2, the Hub offers open and multi-purpose spaces and multifunctional classrooms, an amphitheatre and computer laboratories dedicated to networks, cybersecurity and product design and prototyping. A virtual infrastructure can be used to create working environments of all kinds, simulating a wide range of operating systems, software and usage scenarios such as cyber-attacks. The DLH favours face-to-face learning, but all training can...
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The Human capital development strategy reflects and answers the main challenges faced by Poland in supporting human capital development and increasing social cohesion. The challenges outlined by the strategy are: formal and non-formal education quality improvement; health system advancement; increasing the fertility rate; changing the functioning of public administration due to the ageing processes; and poverty and social exclusion prevention.
The strategy set up four strategic goals:
...
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 strategy update was coordinated by the ministry responsible for family, labour and social security. The final version of the document was adopted in 2019. The strategy is implemented by 15 different institutions, including the ministries responsible for education, digitalisation, labour, health or justice.
The implementation of the strategy goals includes strategic projects outlined in the Strategy for responsible development, and supplementary projects grouped in two areas: social...
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 (from 2021 until 2024)
The main goal of the action plan is to prepare the workforce for the modern economy by developing high-quality, relevant, effective and inclusive VET at all levels. The document also provides information on national challenges and main objectives in vocational education and training, as well as the most important tools and measures to be implemented.
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 includes the following five specific measures:
implementing the integrated skills strategy through the development of professional skills in formal and non-formal education, including skills related to green and digital transitions;
provision and professional development of staff for the VET system;
the development of career guidance and promotion of VET;
implementation of innovative and durable mechanisms of cooperation at national and international levels in VET, favouring...
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 (from 2021 until 2024)
To bring former students together, in order to maintain links with their school and fellow graduates through an online community platform.
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 online alumni community platform is a network of graduates from all the pathways offered by the Department of Secondary Technical and Vocational Education and Training. It will give VET graduates the opportunity to stay engaged with the department. Through networking and professional development opportunities, graduates will participate in and benefit from career insights and advice from other alumni and career professionals. Alumni can benefit from continuing education opportunities,...
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 schemes aim to provide re- and upskilling opportunities for the unemployed and the employed and train young people aged 15-29 who are not in education, employment, or training (????s) by 2027. The target for the programming period 2021-27 is for 2 800 persons to benefit from the NEETs scheme and for 1 800 persons to benefit from the Individual Learning Accounts (ILAs) project.
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 Cyprus operational programme THALIA 2021-27 includes two relevant HRDA actions.
Individual learning accounts (ILAs) provide credits to eligible groups of employed and unemployed individuals to attend training programmes and acquire new and/or upgrade existing knowledge and skills. They aim to promote lifelong learning by providing flexible upskilling opportunities and preventing social exclusion. Through ILAs, individuals gain access to training programmes on a broad range of issues...
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.
Human Resource Development Authority of Cyprus (HRDA)
The objective is to upgrade and enrich the skill set of the employed, with beneficial consequences for the economy and society in general.
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 activities, implemented by the Human Resource Development Authority of Cyprus (HRDA) to meet the above aim, include the following programmes:
single company training programmes in Cyprus - the scheme provides incentives to employers to design, organise and implement training programmes to meet the training needs of their staff. The design and organisation of the programmes is done by the enterprises according to the thematic priorities set by the HRDA, after consultation with social...
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.
Human Resource Development Authority of Cyprus (HRDA)
The objectives of the Human Resource Development Authority of Cyprus (HRDA) include:
the integration of the unemployed and inactive into employment, with focused training activities to support employability;
to support work-based learning of unemployed and inactive individuals by placing them in companies /organisations to acquire work experience in a real working environment.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
HRDA implements the following activities/schemes:
Scheme for the employment and training of tertiary education graduates
The scheme supports the enhancement of productivity and economic competitiveness of companies and organisations by providing incentives to them to employ and train young tertiary education graduates. At the same time, it helps to ensure the smooth integration of these graduates into suitable job positions. More precisely, the scheme provides incentives to companies to offer...
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.
Human Resource Development Authority of Cyprus (HRDA)
These training programmes aim to assist employed (public and private sector employees and the self-employed) and unemployed individuals in reskilling and/or upskilling by participating in training programmes implemented by accredited by HRDA vocational training centres (VTCs).
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 four HRDA schemes included in the RRP are as follows.
Training programmes for the acquisition of digital skills
The scheme caters for the acquisition of new and/or upgrading existing digital skills in the Cyprus workforce (public and private sector employees, the self-employed and the unemployed), through participation in training programmes to be implemented by accredited VTCs. The target, for the period 2023-27 is to have 20 210 individuals participating in relevant training activities...
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.
Human Resource Development Authority of Cyprus (HRDA)
to improve the relevance of technical and vocational education and training (VET) to the needs of the labour market;
to facilitate the transition from education to work;
to increase the attractiveness of STVET;
to modernise school facilities and provide a test bed for the development of state-of-the art programmes and promote closer links with the industry;
to improve the quality of VET by developing skills forecasting mechanisms, by updating curricula, 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 2014, the Department of Secondary Technical and Vocational Education and Training (STVET) started implementing the project Further development of technical and vocational education and training (under programming period 2014-20). The project continues with increased ESF+ funding (under the programming period 2021-27). The project covers all VET pathways falling under the authority of the Department of STVET: secondary technical and vocational education, evening schools of technical 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.
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)
The programme aspires to cultivate critical thinking among young people, contributing to their personal growth and wellbeing. At the same time, the workshops increase young people's intelligence, creativity, as well as other skills that will be valuable in their daily lives and career development.
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 Youth Board of Cyprus decided to develop the Youth multicentres programme, leading to the STEAMers programme. Based on the international STEAM standards, the Youth Board launched at the end of 2017 a new series of workshops on robotics, photography, programming, arts, music and theatre.
The STEAMers programme offers workshops in the fields of robotics, photography, coding, art, music and drama. The workshops are conducted by experienced professional educators at the Youth Board's...
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.
help and support in choosing initial vocational training primarily after compulsory schooling but also beyond;
multilingual and low-threshold communication of the Austrian education system for parents and young people with a non-German first language;
develop digital tools that are useful and usable in the long term and complement and support the existing ones;
help maintain counselling and information services under restrictions, building on the COVID-19 pandemic 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.
In addition to the activities of schools and the Public Employment Service, the Chamber of Labour (AK) and the Austrian Economic Chamber (WKO) are important providers of services and tools for the vocational orientation of young people.
The Vienna Chamber of Labour (AK) has included the continuous development of its guidance services in the national implementation plan (NIP) 2022.
This includes the following measures.
Expansion and partial shifting of educational and career orientation offers...
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 objective is to elaborate an action plan for the green transition in education and training, outlining concrete measures. This is intended to address the expected demand for skilled workers and to strengthen the stakeholders involved.
The focus of this action plan is on the energy transition. It is planned that other topics such as mobility, circular economy and social aspects will be addressed in the future. The overall aim is to achieve climate neutrality by 2040.
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 order to set up the action plan for the green transition in education and training, the Federal Ministry for Climate Protection (BMK) together with the Vienna Public Employment Service (AMS) and the Vienna Chamber of Labour (AK) initiated the 'Just transition working group on training and further education'. The Federal Ministry of Labor and Economics (BMAW) was involved in line with its responsibility in the area of vocational training.
In several workshops, this...
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 Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology (BMK)
To support the development of competences that create more added value, to improve continuing training and retraining opportunities, including WBL, to respond swiftly to the development needs of the world of labour and ensure that people are equipped with the right knowledge and skills for 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.
Developing WBL and practical training includes the following measures:
VET and higher education development programme PRÕM+, empowering professional associations and enterprises to provide WBL and apprenticeships and expand WBL;
quality assurance of WBL and practical 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.
To develop and implement a holistic approach to supporting learners with SEN or migrant background, and to diversify training provision for vulnerable groups, in order to prevent inequalities and segregation, exploiting every individual's potential to the fullest.
To reduce the general risk of exclusion of young people and ensure the fastest and smoothest possible return of the young not in education, employment or training (NEET) to the education system or 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 following measures are foreseen:
diversifying professional and training choices for vulnerable groups;
supporting SEN learners in schools and in providing employment supported by guidance and counselling;
supporting students with a native language other than Estonian, including those from a migrant background, in learning Estonian and providing additional Estonian language tuition;
reforming support systems for SEN students, including aligning information systems to support flexible...
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 strategy for employment 2021-27 outlines, for the next programming period, an integrated vision of relevant labour market policies, from both labour demand and supply perspectives.
It was designed to respond to the European priorities set in the European package of measures for more social cohesion and in the European Green Deal promoting measures to address climate change challenges, and to the national priorities set to diminish and limit the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on...
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 strategy was developed in a challenging economic time. It needs to support the recovery of the labour market after the COVID-19 crisis and continue the previously implemented policies, including Youth Guarantee actions.
It is based on social innovation, models of public and private services and partnerships to offer adapted solutions and comprehensively address the increased societal complexity of contemporary Romania.
The strategy proposes a multi-annual framework plan with measures to be...
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 Solidarity
Ministry of Labour and Social Protection (until 2021)
To aid lifelong learning and recognition of competences and qualifications through establishing a system of transferable credits used in the professional training of adults.
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 transferable credit system includes methodology for granting transferable credits for the professional training of adults including categories of skills to be considered for certification of competences: key, technical and occupation-related. It facilitates mobility and complies with the general provisions regarding competences acquired in education and training, including adult 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.
To provide access to quality IVET, increase employment of recent VET graduates, better adapt qualifications to the labour market needs, create new VET paths, with more bridges to higher education, and improve school infrastructure.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Educated Romania underlines the commitment to adjusting the education system to current and emerging challenges. Education and skills-related measures and actions are to be implemented with the support of State budget and EU funds. The strategy foresees adopting a legislative package ensuring implementation of the vision and goals.
The National Centre for TVET Development, responsible for the organisation and implementation of IVET, contributes to the implementation of the goals set at...
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 Anlehre+ is to offer more flexible and shorter low-threshold training pathways that allow people with (multiple) placement barriers to stay in the VET system and thus increase their chances of obtaining a training 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.
In 2022, the Centre for Education and Training (ZAWM) in Eupen submitted a new ESF-project application to develop and implement flexible, low-threshold and shorter training pathways, targeting also migrants (including refugees) and learners with disabilities.
Concrete objectives are the development and implementation of:
the individualisation of support and guidance for youths and young adults with (multiple) placement obstacles;
flexible, low-threshold and shorter training pathways 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.
The objective of the Higher education advancement fund is to make higher education in Flanders more digital, flexible and modern. One of the key points is to further develop lifelong learning in higher education, including more focus on labour market needs.
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 main actions within the key point 'further developing lifelong learning in higher education' of the Higher education advancement fund are:
1. Agile offer of lifelong learning
There is a need for retraining, reorientation and reskilling. This includes developing micro-credentials and reshaping of programmes, in which social partners are involved. It is essential to strengthen cooperation with the private sector, e.g. in the context of dual learning. New, innovative pathways should also be...
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 lifelong learning aims to transform Flanders into a lifelong learning society. This is essential to increase innovation potential and productivity and to prepare Flanders for transformations such as climate change and the ageing population. This is an initiative to promote VET and lifelong learning; it also strengthens key competences in 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.
On 30 October 2020, the lifelong learning partnership was established, to stimulate the participation in lifelong learning through working out a joint approach across sectors and policy areas. This partnership is composed of representatives from the Socio-Economic Council of Flanders (SERV), education and training providers, the private training providers, the Lifelong Learning Committee of the Flemish Education Council (VLOR) and a higher education expert from the Vlerick business...
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 evolve to an innovative knowledge society a resilient and (re-)skilled workforce is needed. By offering (financial) support to individuals and enterprises, the Flemish government wants to increase the participation rate in lifelong learning. Incentives for learners and companies aim to promote work-based and lifelong learning and encourage the provision of quality guidance in the workplace.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Incentives for work-based learning In 2015, the federal incentives for VET became Flemish, due to a State reform. Since then, young people (below the age of 18) and the training companies, which offer work-based learning, receive a bonus each school year (starting bonus for learners, internship bonus for companies). In addition, training companies receive a reduction in employer's social security contribution paid by companies for employees who are low-educated young people, apprentices 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.
Through the STEM-agenda 2030, the Flemish Government promotes STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) in VET and lifelong learning. The number of courses and careers in STEM should be increased, leading also to an increased number of graduate STEM specialists. STEM competences in the wider society in general should also be strengthened: this is known as STEM literacy.
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 STEM agenda 2030 focusses on the following three parts.
Sustainable STEM communication in relation to VET
With a sustainable and inclusive STEM communication strategy in VET:
attention will be paid to the low and barely increasing participation rate of girls;
societal transitions will be placed in a central position (VET and STEM contribute to these transitions);
high-quality and instructive practices will be disseminated towards the STEM and VET ecosystem;
players in that ecosystem will...
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.
With the Excellence Initiative for vocational education and training (VET), the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is providing targeted impetus for a necessary boost in attractiveness and modernity. The aim is to contribute to the necessary change in society's appreciation of VET. The Excellence Initiative for VET is a crucial part of the Federal Government's skilled labour strategy.
The initiative aims to increase the attractiveness of VET for all young people. A special...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
With the Excellence Initiative for VET policy projects are combined into an overarching agenda. Individual activities will be launched successively during 2022 to 2026. Over EUR 750 million have been earmarked for this purpose.
In order to give new impetus to VET, the Excellence Initiative focuses on three central fields of action.
Improving individual opportunity support for talents in VET, to ensure that skilled workers and young people can develop their potential in the best possible way:
...
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.
raise the status of higher vocational education and stimulate the development of excellence in this area;
provide outstanding vocational colleges with the resources to work long-term on quality development and innovation in higher vocational education;
stimulate increased cooperation among vocational colleges and different education levels, and strengthen their cooperation with the labour market.
This means that the centres will amongst others work on shorter 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.
Centres of vocational excellence are intended to contribute to increasing professional competence and the quality of training at vocational colleges. Similar to centres for excellent education in the university and college sector, this is a prestigious scheme which should, among other things, stimulate increased quality in the vocational colleges that serve upper secondary learners, including apprentices, young people (15-29 years) and adult learners.
Centres of vocational excellence have...
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 Research (KD)
Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills
One aim of the white paper is to examine the possibility of giving more weight to programme subjects than to common core subjects. It also aims to assess potential other alternatives and suggest new regulatory rules. It is also an objective that public schools have rules and frameworks as flexible as those of private schools.
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 current regulation, it is possible for county municipalities to determine in their local admissions regulations that up to 50% of the students are admitted based on skills tests, instead of following the ordinary admissions rules based on grades. This only applies to admission to the education programme in music, dance and drama and the education programme in sports. Alternative rules are to be investigated, that provide greater flexibility for admission to public schools, e.g. by...
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 government wants to stop the privatisation of schools and build a stronger public community school to ensure equal opportunities, and to build bridges between people with different social and cultural backgrounds.
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 2022 law removes the possibility of creating and open new private schools and private vocational schools and also extending their existing study programmes. The law establishes that, to be approved, private schools must provide a real supplement to the study programmes in the public schools, something not offered in the public school. For example, private schools of a recognised type, such as the Montessori schools or an international school, can be approved.
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 implement a systemic approach of developing VET provider investment and development strategies in line with the national education strategy 2021-27 and in compliance with the education ministry's manual.
To follow a uniform structure approach for these strategies and include clear goals in line with VET priorities at national level.
To encourage VET providers to set ambitious development goals allowing for growth and competitiveness 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.
Future development of every VET provider is to be stated in its development strategy, shaped in consultation with the sectoral expert councils and local municipalities. The strategies are aligned with the sectoral and regional development plans.
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 Lifelong learning catalyst (LLO katalysator) aims to achieve an independently functioning lifelong learning ecosystem in which organisations (for example companies) and professionals (adult learners) can adequately respond to the rapidly changing labour market and society. This should lead to higher participation in lifelong learning and thus strengthen economic growth.
The role of the catalyst is to:
initiate and coordinate cooperation between education, business, and government;
create...
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 Lifelong learning catalyst (LLO katalysator) is an initiative of VET colleges, applied universities and research universities to boost life-long learning nationally and regionally. The LLO katalysator project, from 2022 to 2027, focuses on various objectives, including the demand-oriented development of (modular) training programmes.
The education ministry is responsible for the project. To achieve the project's goals, all educational/knowledge institutions, MBO-HBO-WO, work together with...
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)
Universities of the Netherlands (Universiteiten van Nederland)
Association of Universities of Applied Sciences (Vereniging Hogescholen)
Contributing to strengthening the participation of employers' organisations in networks of production, exchange and application of knowledge, as well as reinforcing the technological intensity and/or knowledge of the activity of employers' organisations.
Improving the employability of citizens.
Improving the competitive capacity of the national economy.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
These programmes are designed to meet the needs of professionals in a specific area, responding to market needs and creating value for professionals and institutions, serving as a national reference in the area.
Programmes are developed within the scope of cooperation between higher education institutions and public and private employers, with a view to providing students with competences in transversal subjects valued by the labour market and facilitating their professional integration 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.
Reinforcing a positive and valuing image of dual certification modalities among young people, families, educational communities and the business community.
Increasing the attractiveness of qualification level 4 dual certification offers.
Encouraging and motivating adults to complete their training or schooling paths.
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 different kinds of initiatives and events to promote and disseminate VET:
Professional Education and Training Campaigns (Campanha de Educação e Formação)
The campaign targets young people who are in the ninth grade (13-15 years old) when taking an informed and well-guided choice is of the utmost importance. Civil society, and particularly parents and guardians of young people in the third cycle of basic education are also target groups. It will promote vocational education as...
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)
National Agency for Qualification and Vocational Education and Training (ANQEP)
Directorate General for Education (DGE)
Higher education institutions
Directorate General for Educational Establishments (DGEstE)
The purpose of the National platform for progress in VET is to encourage dialogue between various interested parties in order to advance the vocational education system. The platform functions as a consulting group of experts providing suggestions for issues related to VET system development: identify the need for updating /developing VET curricula, which will allow a greater number of stakeholders to be directly involved in the quality of VET processes.
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 platform for the progress in VET, as a team of experts, is established as a response to the European Commission's encouragement to its member states to strengthen vocational training and adapt more flexibly to the needs of the labour market. The European Commission emphasises the necessary fundamental changes in the area of skills development, as a means for recovery from the social and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The platform focuses on the further development 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 implement a system preventing early school leaving and rendering timely and individualised support to young people at risk of dropping out.
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 ESF project Support for reducing early school leaving (PUMPURS) aims at reducing the number of learners leaving education and training early. The project promotes the creation of a sustainable cooperation system between the municipality, educational institutions, educators, support staff and parents or representatives of the learners, in order to identify learners at risk of interrupting their studies and provide them with personalised support.
Educators are given the opportunity 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.
qualify people from other sectors and/or unemployed people who want to join the tourism sector;
decentralise training in tourism and adapt it to local needs;
contribute to the sustainability and quality of the service provided by companies and agents in the sector, valuing professions and promoting work in tourism;
provide all professionals in the tourism sector with a wide range of training opportunities.
The training in the framework of...
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 programmes of the tourism sector are developed by the tourism schools of Portugal, in partnership with municipalities as agents closer to local realities and mobilisers of the strategic change that it is intended to achieve. They are addressed to tourism sector professionals from micro and small enterprises; entrepreneurs and managers in the tourism sector; and other people interested in working in the sector. The training aims to promote the adaptation capacity of the enterprises to new...
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.
Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation (IAPMEI)
Youth STEAM incentive (Impulso Jovem STEAM) aims to increase by 10% over the next 5 years the number of young people in higher education, in areas of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM), in line with the new 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.
Financial support for projects promoted and to be implemented by higher education institutions (HEI), in partnership or in consortium with enterprises, public and/or private employers, municipalities and local, regional and national public entities, as well as in close cooperation with secondary schools. They may take the form of schools, alliances and/or programmes, oriented to strengthen initial higher education and to increase the number of graduates in STEAM areas throughout the country...
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 Science, Technology and Higher Education (Until April 2024)
Directorate General of Higher Education (DGES)
Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (MECI)
The Adults impulse (Impulso Adultos) programme aims at strengthening and diversifying postsecondary training, ensuring the retraining and upgrading of skills through the development of flexible qualification solutions, able to respond to the transformation of labour markets and the new requirements of employability.
This reinforces the connection to the systems of science and higher education in the search for joint solutions that improve both the relevance of acquired skills and the success...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Financial support for programmes promoted and to be implemented by HEIs, in partnership or in consortium with enterprises, public and/or private employers and including local, regional and national authorities and public bodies. They may take the form of schools, alliances and/or programmes, oriented towards initial and post-graduate higher training of adults (including short-term post-graduate diplomas and masters' degrees), in all areas of knowledge. They work towards lifelong training, as...
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 Science, Technology and Higher Education (Until April 2024)
Directorate General of Higher Education (DGES)
Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (MECI)
Increasing management skills and improving business practices of the participants (entrepreneurs, managers and employees) from SMEs.
Improving organisation, optimising methodologies and promoting company modernisation and innovation processes.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Training action programme (Formação - Ação) is a training modality of the national qualification system for the reinforcement of SME management capacity and competitiveness; it combines training and consultancy. It is addressed to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises active in the North, Centre and Alentejo regions.
This business training combines classroom training, in-company training and individualised consultancy. The programme begins with a business diagnosis, allowing 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.
Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation (IAPMEI)
a. help migrants learn Portuguese, improve their communication skills and understand their basic civil rights;
b. respond to the learning needs of migrant citizens, facilitate their social integration and help them find a job.
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 PLA programme, targeting migrants aged 16 or over, is organised according to training standards included in the national catalogue of qualifications, at levels A1 to B2 of the common European framework of reference for languages. PLA courses are organised in short training units and their duration varies according to previously achieved language competences. The short training units can be credited for school qualifications or dual certification, as part of the basic or upper secondary...
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)
Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP)
Promoting learning and increasing literacy skills - the ability to read and write (including read and write in a digital format).
Increasing the participation of adults in lifelong learning, particularly those with very low basic skills.
Ensuring that adults have access to formal education, that improving their literacy skills leads to effective certification and upgrading of their 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 local projects promoting qualifications - an adult education and training offer tailored to the needs of the different territories - focus on the motivation of citizens with a low level of education and literacy, which are generally more difficult to engage in training or schooling activities. The target group is adults with very low qualifications (less than ninth grade, including no schooling).
These projects, promoted by the Qualifica centres are based on partnership networks with...
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 Training voucher aims to reinforce the quality of active employment measures, particularly as regards professional qualifications, seeking to:
contribute to improving the productivity and competitiveness of companies by reinforcing the professional qualification of their workers, especially those with lower qualifications;
boost the demand for training among the unemployed and active employees;
encourage lifelong learning pathways as well as the personal development of the active...
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Training voucher is a direct financial support for vocational training to be granted to employees and the unemployed as a way of providing individual access to training.
It is addressed to employees aged 16 or over, regardless of their qualification level, and unemployed individuals, aged 16 or over, registered in PES for at least 90 consecutive days, with qualification levels 3 to 6. For the unemployed, to receive financial support, the training must correspond to that defined 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.
Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP)
Enabling young people to complete compulsory education.
Preparing for integration into 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.
Professional programmes (cursos profissionais) are IVET upper secondary education programmes leading to EQF level 4 (academic and professional certification); they are part of compulsory education and of the formal education and training system. They target graduates of basic education aged between 15 and 18, including NEETs and learners at risk of early leaving, who would like to attend a practical programme linked to the labour market. They last three years (from 3 100 to 3 440 hours)....
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 (Until April 2024)
Ministry of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security (MTSSS)
National Association of Professional Schools (ANESPO)
Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (MECI)
The strategic objective of the programme is the vocational training and reskilling of workers from companies directly or indirectly affected by the increase in energy costs, and of the unemployed, to face the challenges associated with the accelerated energy transition:
increasing skills and the qualifications in the energy field, as an element of professional development of workers and improvement of unemployed people's employability;
preventing the risk of unemployment and promoting job...
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 programme Green skills and jobs (Trabalhos & Competências Verdes) comprises short and medium duration training courses, addressed to employees of companies directly or indirectly affected by the increase in energy costs, and to the unemployed, aged 18 or over, registered at PES. The training courses are integrated in the national qualifications catalogue, with a maximum duration of 350 hours, in the environment and energy areas: green hydrogen - fundamentals and technologies (300 hours);...
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)
Promoting a closer link between the polytechnic network and the training and business dynamics in the different territories and regions.
Reinforcing the vocational training dimension in higher education.
Encouraging the diversification of the training supply and lifelong learning.
Increasing cooperation between higher education institutions, the public vocational training service and the associations and companies of different sectors, in order to qualify and re-qualify professionals 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.
High professional technical programmes (CTESP) correspond to a short cycle linked to the Bologna Process, provided exclusively by polytechnic higher education institutions, within the first cycle of higher education. These courses have a study cycle of 120 ECTS, which includes a set of curricular units organised in the components of general and scientific training, technical training and on-the-job training. It confers a qualification equivalent to level 5 of the national qualification...
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 Science, Technology and Higher Education (Until April 2024)
Directorate General of Higher Education (DGES)
Polytechnic higher education institutions
Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (MECI)
Promoting (re)qualification and professional reconversion in order to allow reinsertion and progression in the labour market;
Deepening the professional skills for better professional performance and better adaptation to technological and organisational changes;
Consolidating the initial training paths, reinforcing professional qualification and specialised technical competences;
Stimulating the pursuing of studies towards higher 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.
Technological specialisation courses (CET) are a modality of education and training at post-secondary non-tertiary levels that enables specialised training paths in different technological areas, developing professional skills. These courses, leading to an EQF level 5, are referenced to the national qualifications catalogue. The qualification is obtained through the combination of a general or professional secondary education with a post-secondary technical education.
CET are designed 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.
National Agency for Qualification and Vocational Education and Training (ANQEP)
Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education (Until April 2024)
Ministry of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security (MTSSS)
Ministry of Economy and Maritime Affairs (MEM)
Ministry of Education (Until April 2024)
Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (MECI)
To achieve the specific training needs of the employed and unemployed.
To promote the return of the unemployed to the labour market through a rapid integration in training actions of short and medium duration.
To allow the acquisition of relevant competences, or the valorisation of competences already held, always allowing the continuity of the qualification pathway.
To enable the gradual acquisition of a professional 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.
Modular training courses (Formação Modular Certificada) are addressed to adults aged 18 and over, employed or unemployed, who do not have the appropriate qualifications to enter or progress in the labour market, especially, those who have yet to complete basic or upper secondary education.
This is a modality that allows flexible training paths, through the realisation and certification of competence units and/or short duration training units (UFCD), that can be capitalised to obtain one, or...
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)
National Agency for Qualification and Vocational Education and Training (ANQEP)
To raise the educational and professional qualification levels of the adult population through an integrated offer of education and training;
To improve adult employability conditions and to certify the skills acquired throughout life.
Description
What/How/Who/For whom/When of the policy development in detail, explaining its activities and annual progress, main actors and target groups.
Adult Education and Training courses (EFA) are a flexible training pathway of variable duration, according to the certification level. They enable the development of social, scientific and professional skills needed for the exercise of a professional activity and simultaneously obtain a basic school level certificate (fourth, sixth or ninth grades) or an upper secondary level certification (12th grade).
EFA courses are addressed to adults, employed or unemployed, with low and very low...
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)
National Agency for Qualification and Vocational Education and Training (ANQEP)
