The UNESCO-UNEVOC Biennial Report 2022-2023, titled “Transforming TVET for the Future,” presents a comprehensive overview of the strides made in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). This report underscores the essential role TVET plays in encouraging sustainable development, economic growth, and social equity globally. Through detailed narratives and statistical highlights, the report encapsulates the efforts and achievements of UNESCO-UNEVOC in transforming TVET systems to meet contemporary challenges and future needs.
Global Education 2030 Agenda
Central to UNESCO’s mission is the Education 2030 Agenda, which is part of a global initiative to eradicate poverty through 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. TVET is pivotal in this agenda, particularly in achieving SDG 4, which aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” UNESCO-UNEVOC’s work is aligned with this goal, focusing on capacity building, knowledge sharing, and encouraging innovation in TVET.
Key Achievements and Impact (2022-2023)
- Innovative Practices and Employability Training:
- The report highlights 27 innovative and promising practices added to UNESCO-UNEVOC’s inventory, enriching the repository of effective TVET methodologies.
- Twenty companies collaborated to provide employability training to learners, teachers, and trainers within the UNEVOC Network, enhancing practical skills and job readiness.
- Capacity Building and Training:
- Over 500 TVET planners, managers, teachers, and trainers received training through various interventions.
- The UNEVOC TVET Leadership Programme trained 151 mid to senior-level TVET leaders, equipping them with the skills to drive systemic changes in their institutions.
- Youth Engagement and Skills Development:
- Tailored training benefitted 245 young people and new labour market entrants, improving their employability and entrepreneurial skills.
- The Global Skills Academy initiative reached over 1,000,000 learners, with more than 25 partners from the Global Education Coalition.
- Digital and Green Skills Development:
- Digital skills development was a significant focus, with efforts to enhance TVET teachers’ and trainers’ competencies in using digital tools and technologies.
- Green skills initiatives included integrating climate action and sustainability in TVET curricula preparing learners for a transition to a green economy.
Strategic Initiatives
- UNESCO’s Strategy for TVET 2022-2029: The new strategy aims to transform TVET for successful transitions by promoting skills development, empowerment, and decent work while facilitating the shift to more digital, green, and inclusive economies.
- Medium-Term Strategy 2021-2023: This strategy set the course for enhancing TVET capacities and cooperation among member states. The report reviews its implementation, highlighting successes and areas for future focus.
Partnerships and Collaborations
UNESCO-UNEVOC’s success is underpinned by robust partnerships with governments, international organisations, and the private sector. Notably, the support from the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany played an essential role in funding and providing thematic expertise. Collaboration with institutions like the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) further amplified the impact of UNESCO-UNEVOC’s initiatives.
Conclusion
The UNESCO-UNEVOC Biennial Report 2022-2023 illustrates a period of significant progress and impact in transforming TVET systems worldwide. By aligning with global education goals and encouraging innovative practices, UNESCO-UNEVOC continues to lead efforts in preparing learners for the future workforce, ensuring that TVET remains a cornerstone of sustainable development and social equity.
This report not only reflects on past achievements but also sets a clear vision for the future, emphasising the need for continued innovation, partnership, and commitment to quality education and training for all.
