Fostering Growth: The Evolution from INTERVET to DC-VET in Western Balkans
Fostering Growth: The Evolution from INTERVET to DC-VET in Western Balkans
In the dynamic landscape of Vocational Education and Training (VET) in the Western Balkans, a transformative journey has unfolded through two interconnected projects: INTERVET and DC-VET. These initiatives stand as testament to the commitment of regional and international partners to enhance learning mobility, cultivate a culture of internationalization, and empower both VET learners and educators.
The Genesis: INTERVET Western Balkans
Three years ago, the INTERVET Western Balkans project marked the beginning of a groundbreaking effort to internationalize VET systems in the region. Spearheaded by Uniser Società Cooperativa Sociale Onlus from Bologna, Italy, INTERVET engaged around 250 schools, involving more than 500 students and staff in immersive international experiences.
The project’s focus on fostering learning mobility for VET learners and building the competence of VET staff laid the groundwork for positive outcomes. The consortium, a collaborative effort of associations, SMEs, VET centers, chambers of commerce, and a university from six regional partners and eight EU Member States, showcased the diversity of stakeholders committed to the project’s objectives.
Towards Expansion: DC-VET Emerges
Building on the success and insights gained from INTERVET, the partnership embarked on a new venture — the Developing Capacity for VET Systems in Western Balkans (DC-VET) project. This forward-looking initiative addresses the specific needs unveiled by INTERVET, with a primary focus on improving Work Based Learning (WBL) experiences in the IT, electronics, and automation sectors.
DC-VET introduces a multi-faceted approach, emphasizing the enhancement of WBL practices in the Western Balkans and the strengthening of collaboration with companies. Through a comparative analysis of WBL applications, the project aims to curate a valuable online repository and produce didactic materials, including a video gallery of companies, to enrich the learning experience in classrooms.
Key Activities and Collaborations in DC-VET:
Teacher Upskilling on Inclusive Didactics: Led by Luovi, a work package dedicated to upskilling teachers includes research on methodologies, tools, and methods, culminating in the creation of a toolkit.
E-Learning Course on Internationalization: The project will produce an e-learning course focusing on setting up virtual, physical, and blended mobilities for students, further integrating inclusive didactics into the learning experience.
Learning Mobilities: Teachers will engage in learning mobilities to increase awareness of diverse WBL solutions and discover business realities. Meanwhile, students will test a methodology of blended mobilities, starting in their own countries and concluding in Albania.
The Link: Bridging Past Success to Future Innovations
The link between INTERVET and DC-VET is not just chronological; it is a narrative of growth, collaboration, and a shared commitment to advancing VET systems in the Western Balkans. INTERVET served as the catalyst, laying the foundation for the identification of needs and the formulation of strategies to address them.
As the DC-VET project unfolds over the next three years, it builds upon the promising results of INTERVET. The cooperative efforts of partners from diverse sectors and countries underscore the importance of sustained collaboration in achieving long-term objectives for VET in the region.
The story of INTERVET evolving into DC-VET exemplifies the power of strategic planning, collaborative partnerships, and a dedication to fostering positive change in the realm of vocational education. As these projects continue to unfold, the Western Balkans are poised for a future where VET systems are not just robust but also adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of learners and industries alike.
More about the link between INTERVET and DC-VET WB you can read here.
More about the INTERVET you can read here.
