From 30 September to 2 October 2025, Brussels hosted two major events organised by EVBB – European Association of Institutes for Vocational Training: the EU Policy Camp and the Annual Conference, providing complementary spaces for discussion, networking, and policy shaping in Vocational Education and Training (VET).
Policy Camp – Co-Creation and Open Schooling
The Policy Camp brought together over 150 professionals, learners, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore Open Schooling, a transformative approach positioning VET institutions as hubs for co-creation with families, municipalities, NGOs, companies, and research institutions.
Paolo Nardi, Executive Director of EfVET, highlighted the dual mission of education and training:
“Education is complex — it’s not just technical skills, but also social skills, personal skills, attitude, and values. Open Schooling allows us to work on inclusion while achieving excellence in VET.”
He praised COVEs (Centres of Vocational Excellence) as models of collaborative innovation:
“COVEs bring together the VET sector, companies, local development agencies, and universities. They are not just good examples — they are prototypes that can set the pace for general education.”
Paolo concluded with a clear message on co-creation:
“The future is about co-creation. Schools must act as hubs, collaborating with communities and companies to shape a better future.”
Annual Conference – Dialogue, Networking, and Strategic Partnerships
Ruth Paserman (European Commission DG-EMPL) outlined EU funding priorities under the new Multiannual Financial Framework, focusing on the European Social Fund, 14% social spending target, and supporting upskilling and reskilling for over 60 million people.
EfVET also actively participated in the Annual Conference, reinforcing collaboration and advocacy in the VET sector. Secretary General Valentina Chanina and Vice-President Stefano Tirati joined panels and networking sessions, with Stefano moderating “National Strategies within the EU: Innovative Financing in Action”.
Paolo Nardi closed the discussions emphasizing the importance of a strong, united VET voice and strategic investment:
“The more we cooperate, the stronger our voice at policy level. Scaling up investments in VET makes sense — it benefits our centres, our learners, and the sector as a whole.”
Strategic Outcomes
EfVET’s participation highlights our commitment to Excellence, Innovation, and Inclusion, advocating for co-created, community-driven learning ecosystems across Europe.
Acknowledgements
Congratulations to EVBB and Secretary General Theodor Grassos for a successful Policy Camp and Annual Conference that foster dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy for the future of European VET.
