The memorandum of understanding (MoU), which was signed by Federal Councillor Parmelin in the presence of representatives of the US Departments of Commerce, Education, and Labor, builds on the long-standing cooperation between Switzerland and the US in the field of vocational education and training (VET). This was established by a joint declaration in 2015 and institutionalised in a three-year MoU in 2018, which was renewed in 2021.
Switzerland and the US are committed to continuing the dialogue and exchange of information, experience and best practices in vocational education and training. This includes promoting contacts, partnerships and cooperation between businesses, project sponsors and VET stakeholders. Reciprocal delegation visits and expert meetings are to continue as before.
After the signing of the MoU, a high-level round table took place on The Global Workforce of Tomorrow, to which representatives of Swiss and US businesses were invited. The NextStep programme, which offers young graduates of Switzerland's federal vocational baccalaureate (Berufsmatura) internships abroad lasting from three to twelve months, was also presented at the event. The programme was initiated by the cantons of Zurich and Vaud in collaboration with Swissnex and is funded by Movetia, Switzerland's national agency for exchange and mobility.
In addition, Mr Parmelin visited an electrical engineering training centre in the state of Maryland and met with state representatives and trainees for a discussion on vocational training and education.
In the context of the previous MoUs (signed in 2018 and 2021, respectively), Switzerland and the US have drawn a positive conclusion on initiatives to promote the transfer of knowledge between the two countries. Numerous US delegations visit Switzerland every year to see first-hand how the Swiss VET system works. As a result, several US states have launched their own initiative to promote vocational education and training based on the Swiss model. In addition, Swiss companies in the US play an important role in the transfer of knowledge. Through the apprenticeships they offer, they contribute significantly to the popularity of the Swiss VET system in the US.
Address for enquiries:
GS-EAER Communications
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Publisher:
Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research
