Dual education, better prospects?

On 10-11 December in Berlin, European ministers discuss new ways of cooperation in vocational education and training. The focus is on dual-education models, which have attracted the attention of several Member States. Cedefop Director Christian Lettmayr has been invited to be the keynote speaker at the conference.
Much of the economic and industrial success of Europe can be traced to the advanced skills of its workers. Several countries, like Germany, have established successful vocational training models that combine theoretical studies with working in a company; several more are now interested in exploring similar policy options.
The issue is not to copy another country’s system, but to see how the essential features of dual-education models - such as the close fit between qualifications and jobs, and the involvement of social partners - can be developed within another system.   
Ministers responsible for vocational training from several Member States will be debating this question on 10-11 December in Berlin at a meeting on "Vocational Training in Europe: Perspectives for the young generation".