DC VET WB: Adapting VET to disruption through blended mobility and international cooperation

Across Europe and its neighbouring regions, VET systems are facing a period of deep disruption. Economic uncertainty, digitalisation, the green transition, demographic change and shifting political priorities are reshaping labour markets and skills needs at unprecedented speed. In this scenario, VET is increasingly called upon to respond with flexibility, innovation and stronger international cooperation.

The DC VET WB capacity building project offers a concrete example of how VET systems can adapt to challenging times by combining innovation in learning methods, mobility opportunities and a strong focus on transversal and future-oriented skills. Implemented with partners from the Western Balkans and EU Member States with Uniseras coordinator, the project supported the internationalisation and modernisation of VET by linking education more closely to real societal and economic needs.

A key milestone of the project was the experimental blended mobility held in Durrës and Tirana, Albania, from 15 to 19 September 2025, which brought together VET students and teachers from seven partner countries, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Finland, Italy and Spain. What began as online cooperation across borders developed into an intensive face-to-face exchange, strengthening both professional skills and human connections.

Blended learning as a response to disruption

The DC VET WB mobility followed a blended approach, combining online collaboration with physical mobility. Before meeting in Albania, students and teachers took part in a series of virtual activities organised around three thematic areas: programming, technical solutions for the green economy, and soft skills development. This structure allowed participants to prepare, collaborate and build trust in advance, making the physical mobility more effective and inclusive.

Students working on soft skills, including participants from the Secondary School of Economics “Mirko Vešović”, Kosovo and Finland, explored intercultural communication, teamwork and personal development. Expert input from professionals such as Jasna Pejović (Digital Bee) underlined the importance of continuous skills development, particularly in a labour market marked by constant change.

From theory to practice: green and digital skills

During the training week in Durrës, students further developed previously prepared business ideas and sustainable energy solutions, linking technical knowledge with entrepreneurship. Activities covered areas such as IT, electronics, automation and renewable energy, reflecting sectors undergoing rapid transformation across Europe.

Practical work played a central role. In one blended mobility strand focused on renewable energy, students explored real-life applications such as building a bike generator or analysing the potential installation of solar panels on school buildings. These experiences helped learners clearly connect theory with practice, while addressing the growing demand for green skills.

As Ms. Nejra Neradin, an English teacher from Srednjoškolski centar Hadžići, highlighted, students showed strong motivation despite language and technical challenges. Working in international teams strengthened their confidence in using English, encouraged responsibility and improved their ability to collaborate across cultures.

Mobility as a driver of personal and social growth

Beyond technical outcomes, the DC VET WB mobility had a strong personal and social impact. For many participants, it was their first opportunity to work so closely with peers from other countries. Students reported gaining a better understanding of different realities, building friendships and overcoming initial barriers.

As one participant reflected, the experience went far beyond formal learning, becoming a rare opportunity for personal growth and social exchange. These moments are particularly valuable at a time when young people face uncertainty about their future and limited chances for international exposure.

Strengthening VET systems through cooperation

The programme also included meetings between teachers and VET institutions, notably at “Europe House in Tirana”, where project results were presented and experiences from EU-funded initiatives were shared. These exchanges opened new paths for cooperation and networking among schools and training providers in the region.

The final mobility event confirmed the value of international partnerships in supporting VET systems as they adapt to disruption. By linking digital skills, green innovation, entrepreneurship and soft skills with blended mobility, DC VET WB presents a model that can be replicated and scaled up in other regions.

In a time marked by rapid change and uncertainty, projects like DC VET WB show that VET can remain competitive, inclusive and future-oriented by connecting people, skills and shared European values through learning and cooperation.