The Balkan WBL Cooperation project aims to enhance the quality and relevance of vocational education and training (VET) by fostering transnational cooperation and sharing best practices among Balkan countries in the realm of work-based learning (WBL). The project seeks to address shared needs in WBL through peer learning, experience exchange, and collaboration with transnational experts.

The project identifies key themes for transnational collaboration on WBL, including Governance, Skills, Cooperation with Business, and Attractiveness of WBL.

The partnership will aim to contribute to the improvement in WBL in the Balkans as this form of VET has proven itself in practice to boost the skills of the labour force and thus further reduce unemployment rates in the region.

One of the most significant challenges facing all Balkan countries currently is the need to develop a sustainable economic growth model that ensures long-term job creation and prosperity. Historically, the region has struggled to attract foreign investors, with a key barrier being the reported shortage of skilled workers. Work-based learning has recently gained prominence as a priority in education and employment across all EU member states and many neighboring countries (European Commission, Agenda 2020).

There exists a significant gap between the supply and demand for professional qualifications in all project countries, where VET has traditionally been school-based until recently. WBL now holds the potential to bridge this gap, aligning the requirements of the labor market with the professional qualifications taught in VET schools.

Desired benefits:

• Enhance the quality of WBL through the sharing and exchange of best practices.

• Increase the involvement of companies in WBL apprenticeship programs.

• Improve the legislative framework in partner countries based on policy recommendations resulting from collaboration within expert working group sessions.

• Strengthen the capacity and internationalization of key VET stakeholders engaged in policy-making and practice, specifically in WBL.

• Raise awareness among stakeholders, companies, students, and teachers to foster improved WBL quality and enhance the employability of young people.