VET for employability
Internet connection and a digital device (tablet, Smartphone, PC)
This unit will provide participants with knowledge on employment frameworks, pre-professional skills needed to join the labour market and how VET can foster the accession.
What is employability?
Employability refers to a person's ability to obtain and maintain employment, and to adapt and thrive in different work settings throughout their career (Yorke, M. ,2006). It encompasses a range of skills, knowledge, and attitudes that make a person attractive to potential employers, such as communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn and adapt to new situations (European Commission, 2018). Employability is not just about having a job, but about having the skills and qualities to secure and succeed in a variety of employment opportunities.
Boosting employability through VET
VET programs offer a range of benefits to individuals seeking to improve their employability (European Commission, 2019). Firstly, VET provides learners with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a particular industry. This practical training is often delivered through apprenticeships, internships, or work-based learning, which provides learners with real-world experience and helps them to develop the skills needed to succeed in their chosen career.
Secondly, VET programs often have strong links with industry, which means that learners are exposed to the latest industry trends, technologies, and practices. This exposure to the industry helps learners to stay up to date with the latest developments in their field, making them more competitive in the job market.
Finally, VET programs often provide learners with the opportunity to develop soft skills, such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These skills are highly valued by employers, as they are essential for success in any workplace.
Skills cultivated by VET in accordance with labour market’s needs.
The labour market is constantly evolving, and it is important that VET programs adapt to meet the changing needs of employers. Below are some of the key skills that should be cultivated by VET to be in accordance with labour market’s needs:
- Digital literacy: As technology continues to advance, digital literacy has become an essential skill in the modern workplace. VET programs should equip learners with the skills needed to use digital tools and technologies effectively, such as data analysis, programming, and cybersecurity.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving: Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who can think critically and solve problems. VET programs should provide learners with opportunities to develop these skills through practical exercises and case studies.
- Communication and collaboration: Effective communication and collaboration are essential skills for success in any workplace. VET programs should provide learners with opportunities to work in teams, develop effective communication skills, and build relationships with colleagues.
- Industry-specific knowledge: VET programs should provide learners with in-depth knowledge of their chosen industry, including the latest trends, technologies, and practices. This knowledge will help learners to stay up to date with industry developments and be more competitive in the job market.
- Entrepreneurial skills: As the job market becomes more competitive, employers are increasingly looking for candidates who are innovative and entrepreneurial. VET programs should provide learners with opportunities to develop these skills, such as through business planning exercises and entrepreneurship training.
To conclude, Vocational Education and Training (VET) is an essential pathway to boosting employability in the modern job market. VET programs provide learners with practical skills and knowledge, exposure to industry trends and practices, and the opportunity to develop soft skills that are highly valued by employers. To be in accordance with labour market’s needs, VET programs should focus on cultivating digital literacy, critical thinking and problem-solving, communication and collaboration, industry-specific knowledge, and entrepreneurial skills. By doing so, VET programs can help learners to succeed in their chosen careers and contribute to the growth of the economy.
The following source provides useful information on the importance of VET in fostering employability:
Videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ylJ1E2kEMg
Learn more:
- This article from the official site of the European Commission highlights the importance of promoting VET education and its role in cultivating employability skills for the modern labour market.
https://op.europa.eu/webpub/empl/VET-skills-for-today-and-future/en/
- The article examines the labour market outcomes of VET graduates, comparing them with those of traditional education graduates.
https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/sites/7393e48f-en/index.html?itemId=/content/component/7393e48f-en
- Short video about employability skills:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_336Q6eiDqQ
- Short video on the importance of VET education
https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-129779?lg=EN%2FEN
Employability: Employability refers to the set of skills, knowledge, abilities, and personal attributes that enable an individual to obtain and maintain employment and to be successful in their chosen career. It encompasses both technical or job-specific skills and broader soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. Employability also includes a person's attitude, motivation, and professional demeanour (ILO, 2007). The concept of employability is important for both individuals and employers, as it helps to ensure a productive and thriving workforce.
Employability skills: This term refers to a set of competencies, knowledge, and personal attributes that are necessary for success in the workplace. These skills go beyond technical or academic knowledge and include abilities such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, time management, adaptability, leadership, and self-management (NACE, 2021). Employability skills are often considered essential for individuals to not only secure employment but also to excel and advance in their careers.
European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training. (2013). On the way to 2020: data for vocational education and training policies.
Gibb, J. (2004). Generic skills in vocational education and training NCVER.
Kis, V. (2018). Making skills transparent: Recognising vocational skills acquired through work-based learning.
Mat Sakam, S. Z., Jamaluddin, R., & Abdul Wahat, N. W. (2022). Inculcation of Employability Skills in Technical and Vocational Education: The Knowledge of Employability Skills and Teaching Practices.
Peters, J.-H. The importance of vocational training for career development.
Romanova, O. (2022). Embedding employability skills in vocational education and training: What works best for students’ self-evaluation and aspirations?
World Economic Forum. (2020, October 20). The future of jobs report 2020.
Yorke, M. (2006). (PDF) Employability in Higher Education: What It Is, What It Is Not.