practical guide inclusion in TVET
Recently, UNESCO-UNEVOC launched the publication of Inclusion in TVET, a practical guide for forma, non-formal and informal TVET institutions. The Expertise Centres for Inclusive Education and for Vocational Education (both part of CINOP) have developed the first version of this guide and after a pilot phase among a number of UNEVOC centres, the final version now provides a clear roadmap for building inclusive TVET systems.
The practical guide aligns with UNESCO’s 2022-2029 TVET strategy, which focuses on developing skills for all. This strategy promotes flexible learning pathways that contribute to an inclusive and sustainable economy, and supports the building of a peaceful and inclusive society.
What to expect
Globally, only 5% of young people have access to technical vocational education, while young people from vulnerable groups, such as young women, in particular, still face barriers to their participation. The roadmap helps to remove barriers. It offers solutions for improving TVET participation and completion. By applying the principles and strategies, you can build an inclusive learning environment together as an educational institution and partners.
The 4A tool: improving accessibility
The 4A tool (Availability, Accessibility, Acceptance and Adaptability) is a methodology that helps make programmes and infrastructure in TVET more accessible to different target groups. It provides practical guidelines for implementing measures that make processes more inclusive.
Start pilot projects
Start pilot projects to test new approaches to inclusion on a small scale. This helps you discover what works, evaluate and then implement successful initiatives more widely. Pilot projects are an effective way to measure the impact of changes and extend them further to a wider scope within the institution.
Cooperation is essential
Inclusion requires collaboration between educational institutions, the private sector, NGOs and other stakeholders. By working together, you can better align learning pathways with the needs of the labour market. This not only keeps TVET relevant, but also has a real impact on graduates’ labour market opportunities.
Flexibility in courses
There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution for inclusion. As a TVET institution, you need to offer flexible learning options, such as evening or weekend classes, online courses or programmes that cater to specific groups, such as women, people with disabilities or migrants. A flexible approach contributes to equal opportunities to learn and develop.
Tools for inclusion in TVET
- The inclusion assessment report helps you identify barriers for different target groups within a TVET institution. The report provides an overview of strengths and aspects that need improvement, so you can take targeted actions to promote inclusion.
- The inclusivity dashboard makes it easy to see at a glance which aspects are working well, the effectiveness of measures taken and where improvement is needed. This helps institutions understand which strategies are working and where they can still improve.
- The indicator monitoring and evaluation table helps you systematically track the progress of inclusive projects and goals with measurable indicators, specifically focused on inclusion.
- The prioritization matrix helps you organise/prioritise initiatives based on feasibility and impact. Evaluation of projects on impact and feasibility supports the creation of a strategic plan for the implementation of inclusive measures.
- The roadmap for inclusive TVET is a strategic plan to effectively plan and implement long-term change. it helps you implement inclusive practices, with specific objectives, action steps, timelines, required resources and responsibilities.
These tools and strategies are all described in detail in the publication Inclusion in TVET. By consulting this guide, you will get the insights and practical guidelines you need to get started immediately on promoting inclusion within your TVET institution. Make use of this roadmap, apply the recommended tools and take the first step towards an inclusive learning environment where everyone gets equal opportunities.
