OBS SFUVET examines key aspects of vocational education and training in Basel-Stadt; identifies six action areas to strengthen VET
Strategic priorities strengthen vocational education and training in Basel-Stadt | Swiss Federal university for Vocational Education and Training SFUVET
Strategic priorities strengthen vocational education and training in Basel-Stadt
On behalf of the Basel-Stadt Department of Education, the Swiss Observatory for Vocational Education and Training OBS SFUVET examined key aspects of vocational education and training (VET) in the canton. The resulting report shows how VET in Basel-Stadt can be strengthened in a targeted way and identifies six action areas.
How can VET be strengthened in a targeted way in an urban, internationally connected and knowledge-driven economic region like Basel-Stadt? To answer this question, the Swiss Observatory for Vocational Education and Training OBS SFUVET analysed companies’ willingness to provide training, the structure of the apprenticeship market and the capacities of key VET stakeholders in the canton.
The findings show that the apprenticeship market in Basel-Stadt remains broadly stable in terms of companies’ participation in training . At the same time, market dynamics are becoming increasingly differentiated and complex. In some sectors, vacant apprenticeship places cannot always be filled with suitable applicants. Regional mobility, demographic change and the alignment between young people and available apprenticeship places shape the transition into initial VET, while the capacities of the stakeholders involved also differ, particularly when it comes to data, resources, coordination and sector-specific support.
Strategic priorities consolidated into six action areas
Against this backdrop, the report identifies six action areas that can serve as strategic priorities for strengthening VET. It highlights potential particularly to:
expand data-based governance and information resources to identify developments in the apprenticeship market at an early stage.
strengthen the role of vocational trainers and workplace learning through targeted support, continuing education and administrative relief.
raise the profile of dual VET and highlight its value to young people, parents, schools and companies.
promote flexible training pathways and easier entry routes so that young people can find suitable ways into initial VET.
coordinate matching and transition management more closely to improve the fit between young people and companies.
further establish Basel as a cooperative education region and make targeted use of regional and cross-border cooperation.
The study therefore provides an evidence-based foundation for the further implementation of the Basel-Stadt VET Master Plan, which was launched in 2025. The priorities identified in the report offer a solid evidence base and concrete action areas for the further development of VET – not only for the canton, but also for other VET stakeholders, especially professional organisations, business associations and companies. Strong VET helps to ensure successful transitions to upper-secondary level, address skills shortages and give all young people equal opportunities.
Promotion of Vocational Education and Training (VET) in the canton of Basel-Stadt
Apprenticeship situation and governance of vocational education and training: Strategic priorities for Basel-Stadt
Schlussbericht Lehrstellensituation und Steuerung der Berufsbildung: Strategische Impulse für Basel-Stadt
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