- Interview
- November 2024
Driving excellence in vocational education
In this interview series, we take a closer look at the work being carried out within the Voltage project. Each installment introduces one of the work packages and the organizations driving their efforts. In this third of four parts, we highlight Work Package 4, led by the Bursa Coşkunöz Education Foundation (CEF) in Türkiye
The Bursa Coşkunöz Education Foundation (CEF), based in Türkiye, plays a pivotal role in bridging education and industry through innovative vocational education and training (VET) initiatives. As an organization with extensive experience in managing international projects, CEF brings valuable expertise to Work Package 4 (WP4) within the Voltage project. Known for their active involvement in initiatives such as ADDress for Future, CEF is at the forefront of aligning VET programs with industry needs and EU policies.
At its core, WP4 focuses on fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders to enhance vocational education in Europe, with a particular emphasis on the battery sector. Through international seminars, regional discussions, and resource development, CEF aims to strengthen the skills ecosystem and ensure VET programs remain innovative and sustainable.
“Through cross-border partnerships and the exchange of best practices, we are working to create a resilient foundation for vocational education across Europe,” CEF explains.
Key deliverables of WP4 include a comprehensive report mapping national and European funding opportunities for the VET sector, as well as a compilation of insights from webinars and roundtables. These resources are designed to empower stakeholders with the tools they need to access financial support and implement innovative practices. By aligning with funding opportunities like ERDF and ESF+, CEF ensures that WP4 contributes to a sustainable VET system that meets emerging industry demands.
The ambitions of WP4 extend far beyond immediate outcomes. By integrating EU funding opportunities into VET ecosystems and fostering partnerships between educational institutions and industries, the work conducted by CEF within WP4 supports the long-term resilience of vocational training programs. This aligns closely with broader EU goals, particularly in developing green and digital skills.
“Our focus on clean energy and digital transformation ensures that VET programs not only address market demands but also contribute to the EU’s climate neutrality targets for 2050,” adds CEF.
For the Bursa Coşkunöz Education Foundation, the Voltage project represents more than just a series of initiatives—it is an opportunity to shape the future of vocational education in Europe. Whether through mapping funding instruments or facilitating international collaborations, WP4 is paving the way toward a more sustainable and innovative horizon for VET.
“What’s most rewarding is seeing how our collective efforts empower local and national stakeholders to create actionable results,” concludes CEF.
Governance and Funding (WP4)
Work Package 4 focuses on governance and funding aspects crucial for the success of our project, aiming to facilitate collaboration, knowledge exchange, and alignment with EU VET policies to promote growth and innovation within the vocational education and training (VET) sector.
- Facilitating collaboration and knowledge exchange between the participating regions to strengthen the skills ecosystem and share best practices in vocational education and training.
- Contributing to the “upward convergence” of VET excellence by aligning the project activities with EU VET policy and actions, promoting growth and fostering innovation.