EVTA-NExT: Empowering the Next Generation of VET through Cooperation, Policy and Capacity building

ongoing

EVTA-NExT is a two years programme led by the European Vocational Training Association (EVTA) to strengthen Europe’s vocational education and training sector in alignment with the European Education Area, the European Skills Agenda, and the Union of Skills. Building on over two decades of experience, EVTA leverages its extensive network of VET providers, public authorities, social partners, research institutes, and international stakeholders to advance a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready VET ecosystem. The programme is structured around three strategic pillars: (1) Visibility, aimed at enhancing the recognition of VET and raising awareness of EU priorities across Europe; (2) Policy Engagement, which amplifies the voice of grassroots actors in EU policy dialogues and supports the co-construction of evidence-based policy recommendations; and (3) Capacity Building, designed to equip VET providers and professionals with the tools, skills, and knowledge needed to engage effectively in European cooperation, project design, and innovation. Key activities include study visits, policy roundtables, consultations, training bootcamps, peer-learning exchanges, and the launch of Europe’s first scientific VET magazine. By integrating lessons learned from previous multiannual actions, EVTA-NExT fosters cross-border cooperation, boosts stakeholder engagement, promotes best practices in green and digital transitions, supports gender equality and social inclusion, and strengthens VET’s role in advancing European values. With a strong commitment to sustainability, the programme embeds its outputs into EVTA’s core services, ensures broad dissemination through its network and communication platforms, and secures long-term partnerships to amplify impact beyond the project’s duration. Through EVTA-NExT, VET providers, policymakers, practitioners, and learners will benefit from increased capacity, stronger international networks, and enhanced influence in shaping the future.