VET sector reform

VET sector reform is a joint mission pursued by the Confederation, the cantons and professional organisations (POs). POs operating at national level can submit a request for enactment of a VET ordinance for a specific VET programme. In order to retain consistency, the reform must be based on in-depth knowledge of the current situation and future developments. This is why it is necessary to carry out a prior definition and analysis of the extent of the reform and to address essential issues relating to the development and positioning of the occupation from various angles (economic, technological, social and cultural, etc.).

The PO sets the process in motion by requesting authorisation to prepare a VET ordinance. Once it has been given the green light, the PO will be in charge of operational management of the reform project and will establish the training plan. The State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) assists POs at all stages of the reform process leading up to issuance of the VET ordinance. For their part, the cantons are responsible for implementing training recommendations. By appointing cantonal representatives to reform committees, the cantons are able to assist and support the reform process from the outset.