Project Description
In the realm of Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Europe, a pivotal and critical moment has emerged, marked by the potential for a new ‘digital divide’. This divide is not solely about access to digital technology but rather the contrast between those who resist VET reform and innovation, preferring to cling to old mindsets and approaches, and those who embrace agility and new ways of thinking. The latter group, whether through farsighted planning or pandemic-induced adaptability, seeks innovative and effective solutions to the deep-rooted challenges in VET.
The NEARVET project takes on these challenges, focusing on improving the quality, efficiency, and equity of the VET system from the perspective of work-based learning ecosystems. Aligned with the objectives set in the E+/FLCP call, NEARVET aims to enhance existing cooperation and take it to a higher and more systemic level through transnational cooperation and mutual learning in applied research.
The strategic objective of NEARVET is to co-develop, test, and validate a comprehensive and sustainable system of applied research in Initial VET (IVET) and Continuing VET (CVET) that is strongly integrated with business ecosystems, both within countries and across borders.
Project objectives
To achieve its goals, NEARVET will:
- seek to expand, extend, and share knowledge about the status, gaps, and needs of VET systems in terms of applied research.
- through a participatory approach, NEARVET is testing and validating a blueprint that includes a competence framework and appropriate identification and analytical techniques, aiming at identifying the levels of competencies, skills, and capabilities of VET practitioners
- establish the NEARVET Network, a platform that fosters exchange and cooperation among VET institutions, companies (with a focus on SMEs and start-ups), and the wider research community. The network’s primary goal is to boost knowledge and innovation in the context of applied research.
- create the NEARVET Digital Hub, providing concrete opportunities for cooperation between VET and companies across Europe.
- contribute significantly to policy development and impact on IVET and CVET systems. By gathering recommendations and action plans, the project advocates for mainstreaming applied research and experimental development in VET provision.
With its ambitious objectives and a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders in the VET ecosystem, NEARVET is paving the way for a more dynamic and innovative vocational education and training landscape in Europe and beyond.
