The ETF, the Lifelong Learning Platform (LLLP) and the European Association for the Education of Adults (EAEA) have joined forces to promote policy dialogue and partnerships between governments and civil society organisations (CSOs) active in skills development and lifelong learning. The ultimate aim is to increase access to good quality lifelong learning for everyone in Europe and beyond.
Cooperation, research and practice sharing
National collaboration is key, stressed Gherganova. “As the Ministry of Labour, we cannot improve skills without the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Economy, or without the private sector, which has to tell us what kind of skills they need, or without civil society.
“At the same time, even the private sector cannot always say what skills they need. So how can we know what kind of skills will be a priority in future? We need research for that.”
Moldova is exploring strategic approaches and experiences across many areas of activity, including non-formal education and lifelong learning. The country is developing regulations on non-formal education, such as criteria for selecting priorities and training providers, and issues around accreditation.
“An exchange of knowledge and good practice with countries that have developed non-formal education would be helpful for us,” Gherganova said.
The skills backdrop
In Moldova, skills development is a responsibility across ministries, including the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Ministry of Education. “We work together on this issue.”
Gherganova’s ministry oversees pre-employment policy, and develops active labour market programmes contributing to skills development and training for job seekers – for example, trainee internships. It also produces short-term labour market forecasts, including skills forecasts.
The Ministry manages the development of occupational standards, describing the responsibilities for occupations, and collaborates with the Ministry of Education to ensure these standards and their required knowledge and skills are included in curricula of training providers.
Also, the Ministry updates the classification of occupations, which organises jobs into sets according to the tasks and duties undertaken in the job. “Two years ago we adapted our national classification of occupations to be in line with ESCO, the classification of European skills, competences, qualifications and occupations,” Gherganova said.
The skills councils
Recognising the significance of cooperation with social partners, the Moldovan government has proactively established a robust legal framework and has facilitated sector-based skills councils since 2017. These councils, primarily focused on vital sectors such as agriculture and construction, play a pivotal role in elevating the quality of skills training across the nation.
Comprising representatives from both public and private sectors, the independent skills councils continuously evolve and strive to enhance their effectiveness. Their key responsibilities encompass the development of occupational standards, curricula, and assessment tools. Of equal importance, they collaborate with employers to promote lifelong learning and foster the acquisition of 21st-century skills.
As advocates for the private sector, the skills councils ensure that diverse industry voices are heard, with companies playing an active role as council members. They play a crucial function by informing the government about skills-related challenges and deficiencies within their respective sectors, prompting collaborative efforts with relevant ministries to address employment and skills gaps. To support their initiatives, the government provides project-based financing to the councils.
Additionally, the skills councils, along with business associations, trade unions, and other social partners, may engage in government policy development and implementation. This involvement grants them the opportunity to participate in discussions that shape workforce development policies, influence support measures, and provide valuable feedback on policy implementation.
While the strength of social dialogue on training and skills is on the rise, it remains primarily consultative rather than being actively involved in determining skills development policies and systems. However, the skills councils stand as a positive example of engagement and collaboration between the government and social partners, according to Gherganova.
Skills for the vulnerable
The government of Moldova actively extends its support for skills development among marginalised groups, including NEETs (young people Not in Employment, Education, or Training), women vulnerable to domestic violence or human trafficking, and older individuals facing challenges in accessing the labour market.
"We are working particularly with NEETs, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), piloting employment initiatives at the local level," stated Gherganova. The ILO contributes both financial assistance and human resources to these efforts, engaging young people in training programmes conducted at public employment offices.
According to the OECD, the youth unemployment rate in Moldova stands at approximately 16% for men and 15% for women. Although comparable to rates in other European countries, the risk of joblessness is twice as high for young individuals compared to adults in Moldova. Gherganova noted that around 20% of young people fall under the NEET category.
Women at risk belong to various vulnerable groups protected under employment law and are offered active labour market measures by the Public Employment Service. This includes training programmes aimed at supporting and facilitating their integration into the labour market.
The government collaborates with civil society organisations (CSOs) to deliver non-formal education initiatives. Gherganova highlighted the partnership with CSOs in providing psychological support and skills enhancement programmes to boost the motivation of NEETs.
To reach out to young people, the government supports the National Youth Council, which provides outreach and non-formal training opportunities. Additionally, the Ministry of Education grants funding to civil society groups organising non-formal training programmes for young individuals, covering a wide range of skills such as public speaking and entrepreneurship.
Digitalisation – A new skills focus
According to Gherganova, Moldova currently lacks a national skills development strategy. Nevertheless, significant education reforms are underway to modernise and enhance skills development. Transforming higher education is a priority for the government.
However, as the digital future takes centre stage on both the Moldovan and European agendas, there is a national digital strategy overseen by the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitilisation. This strategy is driving the advancement of digital skills across the public and private sectors, as well as among professionals and the general population.
The 2023-27 Strategy for Digital Transformation, developed through extensive public consultation, including with CSOs, aims to foster a dynamic and inclusive digital society. Its key objectives include establishing advanced technological infrastructure, equipping citizens with digital proficiency, fostering a digitally-driven government, and enabling the business sector to leverage digital opportunities.
Once again, Gherganova emphasised the importance of collaboration in skills training and delivery, highlighting its role in driving effective outcomes.