Towards a Global TVET Agenda

Global challenges in technical vocational education and training require strengthening international cooperation. The heart of this Initiative relies on the exchange of experiences related to reform processes, standards, and innovative approaches, as well as professional cooperation and mutual learning.

From a German perspective, one thing is clear: the future of TVET is at stake! International cooperation is key to embracing innovation and designing modern, attractive TVET. How can we support the supply of skilled workers and social participation in the German system – and how can we do so worldwide, with a particular focus on work-based learning and dual training approaches?

Multilateral organizations play a central role: they promote global dialogue, set international standards, and drive innovation.

Multilateral organizations as key partners

The backbone of the "Towards a Global TVET Agenda" Initiative are multilateral organizations.

On behalf of the Federal Ministry for Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth, the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) is working with four multilateral partners:

• The UNESCO-UNEVOC International Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (UNESCO-UNEVOC),
• International Labor Organization (ILO)
• Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
• European Training Foundation (ETF)

From the beginning of 2025 until the end of 2027, the partners are implementing concreate measures in four focus areas:

• Knowledge sharing and global fora
• Global and regional TVET innovations – capacity building for social partner involvement
• Prototyping TVET data reporting
• Partnership for Excellence

The development of a joint global agenda begins with strengthened global partnership and coordinated action.

Open policy partnership

Regional policy partners and networks, such as the European Commission, the African Union, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) TVET Council, and the Alliance for Dual Education in Latin America and the Caribbean, play a key role as catalysts and links to regional strategy processes. In addition, WorldSkills International and WorldSkills Germany support the agenda process.

In the future, the open cooperation model – or open policy partnership – is expected to expand to include additional partners, with the aim of jointly strengthening TVET systems worldwide.

More information

BIBB: Towards a Global TVET Agenda