Internationalising lifelong learning: bringing networks to a new level

Throughout its quarter a century history, the ETF has always promoted mutual cooperation geared towards advancing lifelong learning in EU neighbouring countries as part of its mission. In line with this, the ETF is coordinating a set of 4 initiatives with the aim of promoting networks for the internationalisation of lifelong learning: Let's have a look! 

a- The ETF Network for Centres of Vocational Excellence  
An initiative by ETF to form a conglomerate of organisations working in vocational training according to specific criteria with the possibility of allowing membership to a number of entities based on nominations of their national authorities. The network aims at fostering technical cooperation relations at the international level through including a variety of actors from the civil society in different countries in a way that would support peer learning and allow for a more active exchange of ideas, and expertise, as well as the implementation of new training methods.  

b- Skills Lab Network 
Launched last year, the idea behind establishing a lab dedicated for skill development is to utilise ETF resources in a more efficient way in order to enable more institutions to come in and benefit from the flow of information available in fields of technical cooperation, vocational training, skill development in a way beneficial to enterprises. The initiative also focuses on providing guidance and technical support in terms of better formulating labor market policies, especially in EU neighbouring countries through the identification of the skills of vulnerable groups and working towards better ameliorating them. It's worth saying that lab has an advisory group and includes a wide set of academics, researchers, in addition to social capital experts. 

c- Quality Assurance Forum 
Present ever since 2017, the Quality Assurance Forum aims at strengthening interstate relations in areas of education and developing teachers' skills in a way that achieves the EU's vision of having modern and up to date educational and training-based policies. Attended by representatives of Albania, Algeria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Egypt, North Macedonia, Israel, Jordan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro, Palestine, Serbia and Turkey, the forum greatly contributes to creating a vibrant space of mutual cooperation with positive socioeconomic implications for all participants at the international level.  

d- Community of Innovative Educators 
Through this community, educators can get in touch with one another, as well as, get to know the latest trends in teaching innovation and design thinking so as to enhance their professional capabilities and ameliorate their learning styles. Moreover, the community provides them with the opportunity to showcase their experiences and success, alongside various facilities to build networks and connections. In the same context, educators taking part in this initiative enjoy the opportunity to get involved in international projects, thus develop their skills and gain new career insights. 

More about our campaign on Networks and partnerships for change: here