A new Cedefop (European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training) study opens a discussion on international qualifications: what they are, how they are managed, and how they may affect national qualifications and standards as well as the common EU tools for vocational education and training.
Not all diplomas and certificates are awarded by public authorities within a national education and training system. International qualifications, awarded by social partner organisations or multinational companies, now cover fields as diverse as construction, information- and communication technologies (ICT), welding, sports, transport, financial services and hairdressing.
So what does this trend mean for education and training standards and for the wider recognition of qualifications?
Cedefop's study aims to launch the discussion on international qualifications, whose reach and popularity affect two European initiatives: the European qualifications framework (EQF) and the European classification of skills/competences, qualifications and occupations (ESCO).