he European Federation of Education Employers (EFEE) has published its written contribution to the European Commission’s consultation on a future European VET Strategy. As a recognised European sectoral social partner in education, EFEE highlights that the main challenges facing Vocational Education and Training (VET) are not about labour market relevance, but rather structural, systemic and cultural barriers.
Parity of esteem & lifelong pathways
VET must be positioned as an integral part of a coherent education continuum, not a second-choice track. Stronger progression pathways to higher education and closer cooperation between VET and universities are essential.
Recognition & portability
Improved recognition of qualifications, micro-credentials and transversal skills is crucial to boost mobility, trust and responsiveness to Europe’s skills needs.
Flexibility over rigid forecasting
Instead of relying on long-term skills prediction exercises, VET systems should become more flexible and modular, enabling rapid adaptation to labour market changes, including the green and digital transitions.
Trust in professionals & stronger cooperation
Teachers, trainers, employers and VET providers must be empowered to co-design responsive learning programmes, with social partners playing a central governance role.
Financing as a strategic lever
Accessible financial incentives, such as individual learning accounts and employer tax incentives, are key to unlocking broader participation in upskilling and reskilling.
A successful VET strategy should not attempt to predict the future, it should enable systems to adapt to it.
The full EFEE contribution to the European VET Strategy consultation can be viewed and downloaded here:
Read EFEE contribution