2024

Strengthening the national system of vocational education and training 

The purpose of  Law 5082/2024  is to further strengthen the National System of Vocational Education and Training which was established by article 1 of Law no. 4763/2020 (A' 254), through: 
A.    The expansion of cooperation between vocational education and vocational training; and 
B.    The substantial improvement of synergy between the different levels of the National Quali-fications Framework (NQF), with the ultimate aim of upgrading the knowledge, competenc-es and skills of their graduates.
The objective of the law is: 
A.    The improvement of the management mode in the field of Vocational Education and Training (VET), 
B.    The renaming of Institutes of Vocational Training (IEK) as Schools of Higher Vocational Training (AEK) 
C.    The overall reform of the institution of Vocational Upper Secondary Schools (EPAL); and 
D.    The strengthening of the regional aspect of governance, through specific improvements and adjustments to the functioning of the Production and Labour Market Liaison Councils  with the aim of achieving the optimal linkage of VET provision with the needs of the local society and economy at regional level.

2023

Vocational training schools (VET)

The operation of Vocational Training Schools level 3 of the National Qualifications Framework is stipulated in Law 4763/2020. More specifically, the Perama and Metsovo Vocational Training Schools will start operating in November 2023, while the Syros School will start operating in February 2024.

Studying at Vocational Training Schools comprise a two-year course with attendance of theoretical and laboratory courses, as well as a paid internship/apprenticeship carried out in private or public sector companies, in positions related to the specialty of reference. Learners can register free of charge and without any other restrictions (exams, age limits). The only condition required is a high school diploma or another equivalent qualification.

The Vocational Training Schools provide up-to-date initial vocational training as well as basic skills upgrading in sought-after specialties, with the aim of dealing with school dropout, the possibility of continuing studies at a higher level and above all ensuring integration into the labour market and professional life, with special care of fragile and vulnerable social groups.

Graduates, having successfully taken certification exams conducted by the National Organisation for the Certification of Qualifications & Vocational Guidance (EOPPEP), are granted a Vocational Education and Training degree level 3 of the National Qualifications Framework.

2022

Model vocational upper secondary schools

The operation of Model vocational upper secondary schools begins in school year 2021/22 for the 1st grade, in school year 2022/23 for the 2nd grade and in school year 2023/24 for the 3rd grade.