On International Education Day, we celebrate the significant progress in shaping the future of vocational education and training in our country—the adoption of the new Vocational Education and Training (VET) Law. This advanced law represents a major step toward aligning education with the dynamic needs of the labor market. It formalizes what was previously done on the goodwill of companies and schools, focusing on equipping students with the skills needed for career success in today’s fast-paced world.
The Need for Change
Vocational education is the foundation of economic development, but there have been noticeable gaps between the skills taught in schools and those required by employers. Companies were the ones most impacted by this imbalance and called for bridging this gap in the educational system. Addressing this mismatch became a priority for creating a strong educational system that supports economic growth and sustainable development. The new law directly addresses this challenge, integrating solutions to close the gap and establish a clear pathway from education to employment.
Dual Education as a Solution
One of the most transformative elements of the new law is the formal recognition of dual education. This approach combines school-based learning with practical training in real companies, allowing students to simultaneously gain theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Dual education meets the need for acquiring skills that can immediately be applied in the workplace.
The Swiss project “Education for Employment in North Macedonia” (E4E@mk) played a crucial role in establishing this model and supporting the preparation of this law, focusing on the segment addressing dual education. It drew from the best international practices, adapting them to the specific needs of our education system.
The new law emphasizes the partnership between schools and companies, underscoring the importance of industry involvement in shaping education. It now regulates the rights and responsibilities of companies’ active participation in practical education, curriculum development, and mentorship, aiming to create pathways for students to gain employment upon completing their education. This collaboration makes vocational education adaptable to the ever-changing demands of the labor market.
Switzerland’s Contribution
At the heart of all activities undertaken to establish the dual model has been a systemic approach. Over the past years, we facilitated significant processes such as:
Strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors;
- Establishing the dual education model, which involves an increased number of practical training hours, especially with employers;
- Defining roles and processes within dual education;
- Building the capacities of partners, including teachers, institutions, and collaborators;
- Promoting the new model and changing perceptions of vocational education.
The Way Forward
The adoption of the law marks the beginning of a new era for vocational education in the country. Its implementation will require continued commitment from all stakeholders to ensure success. Schools need to embrace new methodologies and adapt to changing dynamics, companies must be proactive in sharing industry advancements with their educational partners in the public sector and actively participate and invest in education, while policymakers must provide ongoing support to refine, expand, and monitor these initiatives for improvement.
By aligning education with industry needs, we not only prepare students for the first steps in their careers but also foster greater economic resilience and sustainability. This law is proof of what can be achieved when collaboration between the private and public sectors drives educational reform.
Let’s continue working together to ensure that vocational education remains a dynamic and attractive pillar of our education system, enabling future generations to gain competencies and create the opportunities they deserve.
