Egyptian Delegation Visits the Netherlands for Sector Skills Council in Renewable Energy
As part of a project by the EU Delegation in Egypt to establish and support the Egyptian Sector Skills Council in Renewable Energy, CINOP is assisting the European Training Foundation (ETF) in a capacity-building program for the members of this Council.
From February 10 to February 13, the Egyptian delegation conducted a study visit to the Netherlands as part of this EU project. Organized by the ETF in collaboration with CINOP, the visit provided valuable insights into various forms of cooperation between the renewable energy sector and vocational education.
Egpt 5As part of its vocational education reform, the Egyptian government has initiated the Sector Skills Council (SSC) model. With support from various international organizations, multiple councils are now being established. Their primary role will focus on:
- Generating information on labor market developments
- Developing skills strategies and occupational competence profiles
- Promoting sector entry and professionalization
The week began with a visit to SBB in Zoetermeer, followed by a training session on labor market information and occupational competence profiles. The delegation then explored public-private partnerships in the renewable energy sector, where educational institutions actively collaborate with the industry to shape learning and development. Key visits included ROC Scalda, World Class Maintenance (partnering in the European T-Shore project), and HZ University of Applied Sciences in Vlissingen.
In the Utrecht region, the group gained inspiration from Topsector Energie, the Sustainable Energy Vocational Center of ROC Midden Nederland, and the Centre of Expertise on Smart Sustainable Cities at University of Applied Sciences Utrecht and its partners. These three institutions collaborate within the European SEED project.
The visit strengthened the Egyptian delegation’s understanding of effective sectoral collaboration and the role of the SSC within a national socio-economic framework. Participants were particularly impressed by the high level of organization and cooperation in the renewable energy sector, the quality and dedication of educators, the significant added value of EU collaboration in initiatives such as Centres of Vocational Excellence, and the clear education and labor market perspectives for students.
The knowledge gained during this visit will contribute to the further development of the SSC in Egypt, with a strong focus on labor market information, competency-based education, and sustainable energy solutions.
