In 2016, the European Association of Institutes for Vocational Training (EVBB) and its partner organization, the European Vocational Training Association (EVTA), joined forces to organize their annual conference in Brussels. Both these esteemed European networks have established themselves as key players in the field of vocational education and training (VET) and are active members of the expert group of GD Employment, Social Affairs, and Inclusion.
The conference, held at the Representation of the State of Hessen to the EU, brought together over 160 participants from across Europe and beyond, including representatives from VET providers, educators, policymakers, and stakeholders. The event aimed to promote the reputation of VET in Europe and emphasized its significance as a fundamental tool for sustainable economic development on the continent.
The year 2016 marked a significant milestone for the EVBB as it expanded its reach, establishing a Secretary General’s office in Brussels in January. This strategic move brought the organization closer to EU authorities and institutions, enhancing its visibility and influence in shaping VET policies at the European level.
Together with EVTA, the EVBB advocated for quality in VET, seeking to bridge the gap between different education systems and promote innovative actions to support socially marginalized individuals. These long-term strategies aligned with the vision of fostering a highly skilled and adaptable workforce, equipped to meet the challenges of a dynamic labor market.
The EVBB and EVTA collectively represented over 70 VET and education actors, including prominent institutions from Germany, France, and Italy. Their extensive network and close collaborations with the European Commission and its agencies, such as CEDEFOP and the ETF, further solidified their position as essential partners in the realm of VET policy-making.
The conference provided an invaluable platform for fruitful discussions, knowledge exchange, and the sharing of best practices. Participants explored emerging trends and opportunities in vocational training, identifying innovative approaches to enhance the permeability between education systems and promote social inclusion.
As the EVBB and EVTA continued to make strides in championing vocational training, their collaborative efforts fueled the pursuit of a more cohesive, skilled, and prosperous Europe. The annual conference reinforced their dedication to advocating for VET and its transformative impact on individuals, businesses, and society as a whole.
Documents from here: https://evbb.eu/conferences/2016/07/21/brussels-2016-new-global-challenges-for-vet-in-a-more-inclusive-europe/