Building the Attractiveness of VET Through Interaction and Cooperation
The VET2Sustain project has organised around 50 different events across Finland, Italy, the Netherlands and Germany to promote the attractiveness of vocational education and training (VET). The events targeted students, parents, teachers, study counsellors, companies and policymakers, reaching an estimated 15,000 participants.
At Samiedu Vocational College in Finland, the activities included the Ysiviikko (Vocational Education Introduction Week for 9th graders), information evenings for parents, further studies fairs, technology-themed events, working life forums and discussions with policymakers and regional stakeholders. These events created opportunities for direct dialogue between young people, families, education providers, companies and decision-makers.
The project showed that VET becomes more attractive when people can experience it directly. Hands-on workshops, open days, career fairs, company meetings and interactive discussions helped participants better understand vocational pathways, working life opportunities and further study options. Especially practical “learning by doing” activities and authentic encounters with students and employers were seen as highly effective.
One important learning point was that interactive and participatory events work better than traditional information sessions. Participants appreciated opportunities to ask questions, network and see vocational skills in practice. Hybrid events also improved accessibility, especially for parents, while onsite events created stronger engagement and interaction. Samiedu’s parent evenings showed that families value concrete information about study opportunities, employment prospects and progression pathways after VET.
The events also strengthened cooperation between VET providers and working life. Samiedu’s working life forums and employer cooperation events highlighted the importance of continuous dialogue between education and companies. Employers valued direct contact with students and teachers, while schools gained better understanding of labour market needs and future competence requirements. The project confirmed that strong cooperation with working life increases the credibility and visibility of VET.
The project also identified several lessons learned. Small and targeted events enabled deeper discussions and personalised guidance, while large-scale events were effective in increasing awareness and visibility. Better preparation of participants and stronger involvement of working life representatives were identified as important areas for future development. Meetings with policymakers also highlighted that decision-makers can be difficult to reach, but their involvement is essential for long-term support, visibility and development of vocational education.
Overall, VET2Sustain demonstrated that well-planned, interactive and practice-oriented events can play an important role in improving the image, visibility and attractiveness of vocational education across Europe
Read more about the VET2Sustain project, developing cooperation between VET schools and working life in European countries. The project is funded by the European Union, European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA).
