Mobility Matchmaking Exchange in the Basque Country: Exploring Regional Approaches to Education and Skills Supply
26/11/2025
In November, a delegation of five representatives from Region Västra Götaland (Sweden) travelled to the Basque Country for a multi-day study visit focused on regional strategies for education, skills, and labour-market collaboration. The Basque Country provided an inspiring backdrop for in-depth exchanges on how territories can strengthen lifelong learning and anticipate skills needs.
The visit centred on understanding systematic approaches to skills provision, with a particular emphasis on vocational education and training (VET). Throughout the programme, the Swedish delegation explored how regional public authorities in the Basque Country work to foster stronger cooperation between education providers and labour-market actors—an essential component in addressing skills mismatches and responding to shortages in key sectors.
Several leading institutions opened their doors to the group. At Tknika, the Basque VET Applied Research Centre, participants learned about cutting-edge innovation models, teacher upskilling programmes, and mechanisms that connect VET centres closely with industry. The delegation also visited a VET school in Usurbil, known for its strong technical orientation, as well as Mondragon University, a cooperative higher-education institution renowned for its close ties to regional enterprises.
Reflecting on the experience, Maria Nordh, Policy Advisor at Region Västra Götaland, highlighted the value of the exchange:
“The Basque Country’s commitment to continuous upskilling for vocational teachers, combined with its deep collaboration between educators and the business community, is truly impressive. The study visit offered many new perspectives that will enrich our ongoing work on skills provision.”
The study visit was organised through TAIEX REGIO Peer2Peer, enabling regional authorities to learn from each other and strengthen capacity in key policy areas.
This exchange is also part of the Pact for Skills Regional Skills Partnership on Lifelong Learning Mobility, which includes regions like Västra Götaland (Sweden), Movetia (Switzerland), and Catalonia, in addition to other key stakeholders such as Camilla Winter AB (Sweden). These partnerships are instrumental in fostering regional collaboration, promoting equity, and empowering individuals through lifelong learning. By continuing to share knowledge and best practices, these regions are paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future for education and vocational training.
