The Swiss Vocational Education and Training Initiative India: Background, Concept and Results of the Pilot Project 2008-2013

Abstract

The demand for highly qualified professionals with practical vocational edu- cation and training is increasing worldwide. However, many countries do not have a vocational education and training system comparable to the scheme in Switzerland. Vocational education and training is usually provided in schools, which seldom work together with local industry. Otherwise, it is implemented in individual companies and aligned to the specific needs of those organisations only. Generic, academic and soft skills are rarely provided. This book describes the Swiss Vocational Education and Training Initiative India, its background, concept and results. The initiative is a response to the requirements of Swiss companies in India, which can only fully exploit their growth potential when they can employ better qualified personnel. A fascinating role concept for implementing the dual vocational education and training system in India was designed, implemented and evaluated together with the participating organisations, regional vocational education and training schools, coordinating organisations and the authorities. The results are very promising for expansion to other regions and occupations. The book also highlights the obstacles that must be overcome in such a project. --> The demand for highly qualified professionals with practical vocational edu- cation and training is increasing worldwide. However, many countries do not havea vocational education and training system comparable to the scheme in Switzerland. Vocational education and training is usually provided in schools, which seldom work together with local industry. Otherwise, it is implemented in individual companies and aligned to the specific needs of those organisations only. Generic, academic and soft skills are rarely provided.This book describes the Swiss Vocational Education and Training Initiative India, its background, concept and results. The initiative is a response to the requirements of Swiss companies in India, which can only fully exploit their growth potential when they can employ better qualified personnel. A fascinating role concept for implementing the dual vocational education and training system in India was designed, implemented and evaluated together with the participating organisations, regional vocational education and training schools, coordinating organisations and the authorities. The results are very promising for expansion to other regions and occupations. The book also highlights the obstacles that must be overcome in such a project.