Enhancing Employability and Lifelong Learning Through Collaborative Research in Ethiopia and Austria

Key Achievements

Employability Study

The study investigated employability factors for Ethiopian TVET graduates through pilot studies, surveys, and interviews with trainees, graduates, and TVET officials. Challenges such as access to participants and regional security were managed effectively, yielding insights into the importance of soft skills training, vocational guidance, and stronger links between education and industry. Findings were disseminated in workshops and academic publications, offering actionable recommendations for policy improvements.

National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Study

The NQF study conducted research into qualifications frameworks in Ethiopia and Austria. Using actor-centred institutionalism and Toulmin’s model of argumentation, the analysis unpacked the complex rationale behind NQF implementation in diverse contexts. The partners benefited from this study by deepening their understanding of how NQFs can address systemic challenges in vocational education and labour market alignment. Findings were presented at international conferences and prepared for publication, contributing to global discourse on education policy.

Impact and Sustainability

The project fostered capacity building and mutual learning. Ethiopian researchers gained exposure to Austrian best practices in TVET, while Austrian partners enriched their perspectives by engaging with Ethiopia’s educational context. This exchange informed Austria’s own strategies for integrating diverse learner needs, addressing inclusivity in education, and fostering international collaboration in educational research. The project advanced SDG 4 by promoting employability, lifelong learning, and inclusive education in both Ethiopia and Austria. Shared experiences, academic outputs, and stakeholder workshops supported long-term educational improvements in both countries.

Looking Ahead

By addressing employability and qualifications frameworks, this project met development needs of both partner countries, promoting inclusive education and lifelong learning while strengthening international academic partnerships. The success of the project laid the foundation for future collaborations, including the newly approved APPEAR project, Capacity Development of Trainers on Greening TVET in Ethiopia, led by the Ethiopian partners.
 

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