Vocational Education and Training (VET) in the Basque Country is gaining increasing recognition as a strategic pillar in the connection between education, the labour market, and sustainable development. In line with European trends, the Basque VET system continues to prioritise digitalisation and international cooperation, while also reinforcing its role as a bridge between educational institutions, industry, and society.
The Basque VET model has been internationally acknowledged for its strong collaboration with companies, a dynamic that not only supports innovation and employability but also aligns training with real market needs. As highlighted in recent government initiatives, the integration of sustainability into vocational training has become a central objective, positioning VET as a key driver in the ecological transition and the development of green skills.
Digitalisation remains a cornerstone of the Basque VET strategy. Online learning platforms, virtual training environments, and the integration of emerging technologies in classrooms provide students with access to global knowledge and enhance their digital competencies. Teachers are also actively involved in upskilling programmes to adapt to digital tools and methodologies, ensuring high-quality instruction that meets evolving demands.
International cooperation plays a vital role in this transformation. Basque VET centres participate in numerous European projects, such as VET4EU2, enabling cross-border collaboration through digital means. These initiatives offer students practical, international experiences both virtually and through mobility programmes, fostering a global mindset and intercultural skills.
Moreover, the concept of “internationalisation at home” has gained momentum, allowing students to benefit from global exchange without physical travel. Virtual internships, joint online projects, and international teacher training sessions are now integral components of the Basque VET experience.
Despite these advances, challenges remain. While the Basque Country continues to evolve, it can still learn from more digitally mature VET systems in Europe, particularly regarding large-scale integration of AI and data-driven training approaches. Nevertheless, the foundations are solid: a strong partnership with companies, a proactive stance on sustainability, and a growing network of international collaborations.
In summary, vocational education in the Basque Country is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by digitalisation, international cooperation, and sustainability. These pillars reinforce the system’s capacity to prepare students for a globalised, green, and technologically advanced future—contributing to a more competitive and forward-looking education model.
References
- “Euskadi reivindica su modelo de FP como puente entre educación, empresa y sostenibilidad” (https://www.euskadi.eus/gobierno-vasco/-/noticia/2025/euskadi-reivindica-su-modelo-fp-como-puente-educacion-empresa-y-sostenibilidad/)
- Tknika’s international projects (e.g., BASERRIBERRI, BRIDGES 5.0, AIRinVET, LCAMP, InnoVET)
(https://tknika.eus/en/areas-2/internationalisation-in-the-field-of-vocational-education-and-training/) - Tknika’s Open Days 2025 (https://tknika.eus/en/cont/open-days-2025-2/)
- 6th Basque VET plan (https://www.euskadi.eus/contenidos/informacion/legelabur/eu_def/adjuntos/6PLAN_FP_eng_2022.pdf)