Fourth European Vocational Skills Week: ‘VET for All – Skills for Life' | CDE Almería - Centro de Documentación Europea

The 2019 European Vocational Skills Week will take place in Helsinki from 14to 18 October. Hosted by the European Commission in partnership with the Finnish Presidency of the Council of the EU, this fourth edition will continue to encourage people of all ages to ‘discover their talent’ through vocational education and training (VET).

In addition to the events during the Week in Helsinki, more than 1,000 activities and events have already signed up and will take place throughout the year at local, regional and national level across Europe and beyond. All stakeholders have come together to highlight the benefits of VET, showcase opportunities and promote an educational pathway that has the potential to transform the lives of young and old alike.

What is the current state of VET in Europe?

VET participation rates have been growing steadily over the last several years, as more and more people have benefited from this unique educational pathway. As of 2018:

Almost 80% of young VET graduates find employment soon after graduating;

Youth unemployment rates are at a record low of 15.2%;

22% of people in Europe are considered ‘low-qualified’;
48% of students participate in VET;
11% of Europe’s adult population participate in adult learning;
72% of companies provide their employees with training opportunities (2015);
49% of employees take part in the job-related training offered by their employer (2015).

Awards for VET Excellence 2019

The European Vocational Skills Week reward each year outstanding individuals, organisations and initiatives through the ‘Awards for VET Excellence’. The prizes are designed to highlight the quality in vocational education and training (VET), provide visibility to the winners, motivate those taking part and support the development of networks and new career opportunities.

Anyone can vote through this link and choose what the most inspiring VET story is. The vote is open until the 15 October included. A ceremony is planned to award winners during the Week.