New GOVET publication on sustainability in vocational education and training
In cooperation with international partners GOVET has produced a publication on the topic of sustainability in vocational education. What role does the topic play at a political level? How can sustainability be considered in the vocational practice? What best practices are there from other countries?
Sustainability is changing the landscape of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) worldwide. As TVET expert, Precious Lisulo from Zambia, emphasises in her contribution: "Sustainable development is a vision of education that harmonises human and economic well-being with cultural traditions and respect for the earth's natural resources." Since 2021, the German Office for international cooperation in vocational education (GOVET) has been actively committed to realising this vision and promoting a global dialogue on the integration of sustainability into vocational education and training systems.
Sustainability in international vocational education and training: a global commitment
The publication brings together the diverse perspectives of 22 authors from eleven countries. It documents workshops, expert discussions and research work on the topic of sustainability in vocational education and training. The contributions range from structural and systemic strategies to practical implementation in institutions and practical approaches by trainers and specialists.
In Germany, the "QuBe" projection tool of the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) shows how vocational education and training plays a central role in managing socio-ecological transformations. For example, 400,000 new jobs could be created in the areas of energy-efficient technologies, infrastructure and sustainable transport. These developments require modernised job profiles, such as environmental technologists for recycling or wastewater management.
Learning from international approaches
Global cooperation is a focus of GOVET's work and GOVET works with several partner countries on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF) in the field of vocational education and training. The publication reveals different approaches to sustainability in vocational education and training. Germany focuses on overarching skills such as environmental protection and resource management, while Ghana emphasises the ecological aspects of institutions. In South Africa, sustainability is closely linked to the energy transition and social justice.
A platform for change
The publication serves as a platform to share best practices and innovations. It is organised into thematic sections and includes macro-, meso- and micro-level strategies that provide valuable insights for policy makers, educators and business leaders.
By promoting cooperation, GOVET emphasises the potential of vocational education and training as a driver for sustainable development. The joint effort of nations ensures that vocational education and training adapts to the changing demands of the labour market and equips future generations with the necessary skills for a sustainable world.