Basque Country's Dual Vocational Training Model Drives Economic Growth; Canary Islands Seek Greater Flexibility
The Basque Country's dual vocational training model stands as a benchmark for employment success in Spain, while the Canary Islands seek more adaptable training systems.
- • The Basque Country's dual vocational training model links education directly with companies, boosting employability and economic growth.
- • 65% of jobs in Spain require vocational training, rising to 70% in industry sectors, according to Jorge Arévalo.
- • The Canary Islands need greater flexibility in vocational training to keep pace with evolving market demands.
- • Vocational training is crucial for regional economic development and requires continuous investment in teacher and program quality.
Key details
The Basque Country has solidified its reputation as a leading region in Spain for vocational training through a highly effective dual model that combines theoretical education with practical experience. Jorge Arévalo, a key figure in developing this approach as a former deputy minister of vocational training in the Basque Government, emphasized that 65% of jobs in Spain require vocational qualifications, which rise to 70% in the industrial sector. The Basque system thrives on strong partnerships between vocational centers and companies, ensuring programs align with economic needs and innovations across industries like health, agriculture, and technology.
Arévalo highlighted the Basque Government's ongoing investment in teacher training to maintain high educational standards and stressed the significance of soft skills such as adaptability and teamwork alongside technical expertise. By enabling students to work within companies during their studies, the dual model greatly enhances employability and positions the Basque Country among Europe's top regions for job rates.
In contrast, the Canary Islands—while having a solid vocational foundation—face challenges in adapting training to market changes. Arévalo called for more flexible course structures, including modular programs and opportunities for current workers to update skills, to meet evolving economic demands. Both Arévalo and ICSE president José Domingo Martín agree vocational training is critical for economic development and youth empowerment in Spain, particularly in regions like the Canary Islands that require greater adaptation to dynamic labor markets.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.