How can vocational education and training adapt to rapid technological change while remaining accessible to every learner?
This online conference brings together policymakers, researchers and practitioners to discuss the latest evidence on how national vocational education and training (VET) systems can promote excellence and inclusion.
Shaping the future of vocational education and training
As VET systems across Europe respond to rapid digital transformation and changing skills needs, the conference will provide essential, evidence-based insights into how countries can develop high-performing vocational education systems. These systems must not only strengthen economic competitiveness but also ensure equal opportunities and access for all learners.
The programme will open with a European perspective from keynote speakers:
- Jürgen Siebel, Executive Director, Cedefop
- Anna Barbieri, European Commission
This will be followed by the presentation of key findings from Cedefop’s research project “VET Excellence and Inclusion for the 21st Century.”
Interactive parallel sessions will explore:
- Excellence in VET at national level
- Future approaches to inclusion in vocational education and training
- The adoption and integration of artificial intelligence into VET systems
A central feature of the conference will be the presentation of original, state-of-the-art research. The selected papers will connect new empirical evidence directly with policy dialogue. [Link to the list of selected abstracts]
Register now
Secure your place and join the discussion on how to shape the future of vocational education and training.
Important dates
- 15 July 2026: Deadline for abstract submissions
- 15 September 2026: Notification of acceptance
- 19 November 2026, 9:30–13:30 CET: Online conference
- Spring 2027: Publication of selected papers in the Cedefop Zenodo Community
The event is part of the European Skills & VET Week, an initiative of the European Commission organised by Cedefop. Since 2016, the European Skills & VET Week has provided policymakers, stakeholders and social partners with a platform to exchange knowledge, showcase good practices and support strategies for upskilling and reskilling the European workforce.
The event is also offerd to ReferNet members as a knowledge-sharing seminar.