The European Training Foundation (ETF) Torino Process assessment provides an external, forward-looking analysis of the country's human capital development issues and Vocational Education and Training (VET) policy responses in a lifelong learning perspective. It is based on evidence provided in the Azerbaijan national Torino Process report compiled in 2018 using a standardised questionnaire (National Reporting Framework) and additional information sources, where relevant.
The focus is on challenges that prevent the development and use of human capital in the country and can be addressed through education and training, including VET. For the purpose of this assessment, human capital is defined as the aggregate of the knowledge, skills, talents and abilities possessed and used by individuals for economic, social and personal benefit.
Azerbaijan's priorities in human capital development feature across different strategic roadmaps adopted in December 2016, including the Strategic Roadmap for VET 2016–2025. The country is also implementing the European Union (EU) support programme: Annual Action Programme (AAP) 2014 on Education and Training. Preparations for the new EU AAP 2018 on Education for Employment are in the pipeline, including preparations for the next Eastern Partnership (EaP) multiannual programme.
This assessment is therefore meant as an input to the above-mentioned programmes. This report is a conclusion of the stakeholders' workshop convened in Baku on 28–29 November 2019, to discuss an early draft of the ETF assessment. Participants found the ETF findings relevant and further elaborated the recommendations. The ideas they contributed are reflected in this final report.