The two-day event discussed apprenticeships and other forms of work based learning, as a key to closing the skills gap affecting the European labour market. It placed particular emphasis on the role of chambers in the transition from education to employment.

Around 80 people from across Europe - representing governments, social partners, VET providers, chambers, businesses and other stakeholders - gathered in Prague and Mladá Boleslav to learn about best practices in the design and promotion of apprenticeships.

The event kicked off with a keynote speech from Karel Havlicek, Minister of Industry and Trade. He spoke about the launch of an effective long-term economic strategy with strong digitalisation.

In a video message, Commissioner Marianne Thyssen talked about the crucial role of chambers in delivering quality apprenticeships that meet future skills needs. She stressed:

‘Digitalisation and robotisation are changing the way we work, our people need skills to get jobs, our companies need skilled staff to remain competitive’.

A fruitful panel discussion concluded that for the VET system to be able to anticipate market demand there is a requirement for strong dialogue between relevant stakeholders, such as the VET providers, businesses and social partners.

Chambers of commerce can play an important role in this dialogue, thanks to their understanding of the market and employers’ present and future skills’ needs. The Czech Chamber of Commerce, for example, liaise directly with VET providers and schools to develop curricula adapted to the needs of companies, particularly those working in STEM sectors.

Local schools, university and business representatives shared examples of best practices around work-based learning, while a European Apprentices Network (EAN) representative stressed the need to involve apprentices themselves in decision making and informed the audience about the EAN work on quality apprenticeships. 

The Industrial and IT High School Smíchov hosted three workshops highlighting the valuable skills students can learn. These included:

• Virtual reality - learners are involved in the development of software and videogames based on VR.
• Cyber security - teaching key skills related to cyber security, programming and coding.
• Smart houses and cities - on how to equip a real house with smart technologies including smart lighting and smart heating.

On the second day, the delegates visited the technical school of ŠKODA academy - which connects theory and practice - where apprentices get to learn the craft and test innovative technologies in the automotive industry.

During the EAfA ceremony, new members were welcomed to the Alliance:

• Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI)
• Innovation Centre for Vocational Training of Aragon (CIFPA)
• Community of Madrid
• ŠKODA AUTO a.s., The Vocational School of Mechanical Engineering.

EAfA members benefit from Apprenticeship Support Services (AppSS), a new package of support that offers online resources and networking opportunities, allowing members to connect, learn and act. Interested in joining the Alliance? Find out more in our dedicated section and join the LinkedIn group.

Download the EUROCHAMBRES report on the topic of 'The Role of Chambers of Commerce and Industry'.