Strengthens International Cooperation in Vocational Education
Mladá Boleslav, October 19 – 22, 2026
Thirty- one representatives of partner institutions from Armenia, Belgium, and the Czech Republic gathered at Škoda Auto University for a four-day Erasmus+ REnForce project meeting and study visit aimed at strengthening cooperation between vocational education, higher education, and industry.
The programme opened with a Steering Committee meeting, partner presentations, and a round-table discussion on vocational education, skills development, labour market needs, renewable energy, and the future of green industries. Throughout the visit, participants exchanged experiences, explored common challenges, and discussed opportunities for strengthening cooperation between educational institutions and employers. These lively and constructive discussions were among the most valued aspects of the programme.
A particular highlight was the visit to the Škoda Auto Vocational School, where participants gained first-hand insight into the Czech model of dual vocational education and the strong partnership between schools and industry. The well-prepared and practical programme provided valuable inspiration for partner institutions.
Another key component was the intensive expert programme led by Mr. Jan Krčmář, the Executive Director from the Czech Solar Association, who shared insights into developments in the renewable energy sector, labour market trends, and the skills needed for the green transition.
The positive impact of the visit was reflected in the feedback received from international partners. Margarit Poghosyan of Tavush Regional College noted that the “professional atmosphere and constructive discussions greatly contributed to the smooth progress of the project implementation” and that the visit “provided valuable insights and further strengthened the partnership among the project participants.”
The representative of Shirak State College of Crafts and Innovative Technologies, Knarik Aharonyan, described the programme as “a meaningful and memorable experience,” emphasizing the opportunity to learn from Czech practices and strengthen cooperation between education and industry.
Lilit Adamyan, CEO of RUEA, highlighted that it was “a pleasure to meet in person, exchange experiences, learn from your practices, and strengthen our cooperation within the REnForce project.”
The organizers would like to thank all partners for their active participation, openness, and valuable contributions throughout the programme. The lively discussions, exchange of good practices, and collaborative spirit once again demonstrated the strength of the REnForce partnership and its shared commitment to advancing vocational education and workforce development.
Lusine Karapetyan, Director of ASUE College of Finance and Economics, praised the study visit for its excellent organization and valuable learning opportunities: “The programme offered valuable opportunities to learn about Czech vocational education, visit the university and its laboratories, meet representatives of Czech vocational schools, and explore the cooperation between education and industry through visits to the Škoda Auto Vocational School and production facilities, as well as engaging discussions with the Czech Solar Association. I especially appreciated the thoughtful discussions and the chance to exchange experience with colleagues from the partner institutions. The visit was both informative and inspiring.”
The organizers would like to thank all partners for their active participation, openness, and valuable contributions throughout the programme. The lively discussions, exchange of good practices, and collaborative spirit once again demonstrated the strength of the REnForce partnership and its shared commitment to advancing vocational education and workforce development.
