Vocational Education And Training In Bulgaria

Over recent years, Bulgaria has shown great willingness to reform its vocational education and training (VET). Significant challenges remain, however, relating notably to the system’s responsiveness to labour market needs and its capacity to ensure equitable outcomes for learners. This report is a focused review of two predefined issues, the governance and funding of VET.

Abstract: Over recent years, Bulgaria has shown great willingness to reform its vocational education and training (VET). Significant challenges remain, however, relating notably to the system's responsiveness to labour market needs and its capacity to ensure equitable outcomes for learners. This report is a focused review of two predefined issues, the governance and funding of VET. These are two fundamental elements within the delivery of skilled VET graduates. The report assesses the strengths of the Bulgarian VET system and the challenges it faces when it comes to governance and funding and suggests policy responses for how these challenges can be addressed. Four specific challenges are identified linked to the governance of the VET system: decision-making powers and capacity; the use of data and evidence to inform policy decisions; social partner engagement; and, oversight of adult VET learning provision. With regard to VET funding, both school level financial autonomy, and the capacity to act upon increased flexibilities, are currently modest. The report argues that potential exists to strengthen collaboration between schools and employers to achieve increased cost-sharing between government and private firms. Finally, more can be done to improve equity in VET delivery through Bulgaria's funding formula

Recoge: 1.New technologies, labour organization, qualification structures and vocational training in Bulgaria - 2.The bulgariam education system. Structure. Relationchip between education and the scientific and technological progress - 3.Some specific features of the process of education and vocational training relates to the introduction of technologies in Bulgaria - 4.Some important problem areas in education and vocational training in Bulgaria.

The series entitled "Guide to secondary education in Europe" is developed as part of the project "A secondary education in Europe". The aim of this series is to give the public not only systematic & coherent information on the educational systems & traditions in all signatory states to the European Cultural Convention, but also to outline the essential problems these systems are facing at the present time.

This report on vocational education and training (VET) in Bulgaria consists of a condensed description of the present situation in VET and analysis of the main challenges facing VET reform in the country. Chapter 1 offers basic data on Bulgaria. Chapter 2 describes main features of the VET system, strategic objectives for VET, and legislative framework. Developments in these specific areas are highlighted: administrative structures and decentralization; finance; adaptation of training to change; identification of skill needs; quality standards and qualifications; promotion of continuing vocational training; social partners; involvement of enterprises in VET; equal opportunities; access to training; and vocational guidance and counseling. Chapter 3 provides an overview of international assistance, including the European Union's Phare program for VET and the Leonardo program. Chapter 4 identifies current challenges in three areas: skill needs analysis, institutional arrangements, and qualifications and training methods. Chapter 5 outlines possible priorities for future assistance to sustain and further the reform process. Appendixes include key indicators (access and participation, finance, labor market trends); diagram of VET system; legislative framework; responsible bodies; and international assistance sources. (YLB)

Recoge : 1. Introduction. - 2. Background information on the education and training system. - 3. Vocational education and training. - 4. Continuing vocational education and training. - 5. Methodological notes.