2023 European Vocational Skills Week: building resilience through Vocational Education and Training

VET as a lifelong learning tool: reskilling and upskilling for all ages 

The primary focus of the EVSW, which has been organised by the European Commission since 2016, is to cast light on how VET is key for people of all ages to up- and reskill and to contribute to Europe’s efforts to respond to current and future economic, climate and social challenges. 

Run-up for the EVSW 

• EuroSkills is Europe's largest event celebrating skills and VET. Funded by the European Social Fund, EuroSkills Gdańsk 2023 took place between 5-9 September. Nicolas Schmit, Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights visited the competition grounds and participated in the 6th International Congress on Education and Training. 

• On 25-26 September, the Forum on Vocational Excellence 2023 takes place in Amsterdam, where over 400 participants from 40 countries will discuss the latest developments on the Erasmus+ flagship initiative on Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) and share best practices. Nicolas Schmit will kick off the plenary programme with an interactive talk show.  

 
Key EU level events during EVSW - mark your calendars! 

• 23-24 October: Spanish Presidency Conference on recognition of VET qualifications in Seville, Spain (in-person event)
• 25-26 October: Meeting of the Directors-General in VET in Spain (event for representatives from the Ministries in charge of VET from 35 countries)
• 26 October: EQAVET webinar: Creating a quality culture in VET - Trends and developments in quality assurance for VET providers (online event only - register here by 19 October)
• 26 October: Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) webinar “Education at a glance” on VET (online event only – link will be published on the EVSW website) 
• 27 October: Event organised by European Associations of VET providers (in-person event - register here) 

Collaborate and contribute: your role in shaping the EVSW 2023 

The success of the EVSW relies on the cooperation of VET stakeholders in organising various initiatives and events. We count on you to promote VET as an attractive learning pathway and career by highlighting VET opportunities and inspiring best practices at your level through open days, information sessions, events or other activities. 

Interested? Register your planned events on the EYS website. These events can carry the branding of both the EYS and the EVSW. Stay updated on the latest developments about EVSW, VET and adult learning.