Unemployment is a growing area for concern throughout Europe. It is especially difficult for young people to find a job. For youngsters with disabilities the situation is even more dramatic. Needless to say, this should be a primary area of work and activities for the Agency. Moreover, globalisation and technological progress require urgent and innovative responses in the field of technical and vocational education and training (VET). VET is critical for ensuring that young people acquire the skills necessary for success in the labour market.
Over the past three years, we have examined the complex web of factors that lead to successful VET and transition to the open labour market for learners with special educational needs (SEN) and/or disabilities. During the VET project that ran from 2010 to 2012, experts from 26 countries analysed factors in the course of vocational training and in the process of employment to establish what worked, but mainly focusing on why and how it works.
The project’s main outcome is a series of recommendations for policy makers in the four areas that are likely to improve VET systems: management, VET staff, learners and employers. The new policy brief available on the Agency website summarises these recommendations. I suggest you have a look at the recommendations and take action within your area of interest based on them.
One important conclusion of the project – one that we have also seen in other areas of our work – is that what is efficient practice for learners with SEN and/or disabilities in VET is good practice for all learners. Improving the level and quality of employment for people with and without disabilities is a smart investment and contributes to building a welfare state for all.
The project identified four main groups of stakeholders which are crucial in order to improve the performance of VET systems. Their roles overlap and are mutually supportive: the VET institution’s management, the VET staff, learners, and labour market representatives.
Education and training systems need to adapt to changes and to new skills in demand in the labour market. Co-operation between VET institutions, management and potential employers is crucial. Legal frameworks must be established ensuring an inclusive policy, where flexible and learner-centred approaches are possible. Not only must labour market skills be matched with learners’ skills, but work opportunities also need to match learners’ expectations, with the help of flexible programmes and individual plans.
Read more about the VET project on the project web area and in the summary report.
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Cor J. W. Meijer
Agency Director