The percentage of recent vocational education and training graduates in Cyprus who gained work-based learning experience reached 25% in 2025.
According to a report from the Commission to the Council on the implementation of the relevant Recommendation on vocational education and training for sustainable competitiveness, social fairness and resilience, Cyprus' share is below the EU's target of 60% in work-based learning.
As stated in the report published on Friday, at EU level, this target has already been met, with 66% of recent vocational education and training graduates gaining work-based learning experience.
According to the survey, progress varies significantly between countries. More specifically, the highest rates were recorded in the Netherlands with 95.4%, France with 93.2% and Germany, with 93.0%. In contrast, lower rates were recorded in Romania with 9.1%, in the Czech Republic with 15.2% and in Italy, with 22.0%.
EU research shows that Europeans see vocational education and training as a fast track to attractive and well-paid job opportunities.
85% of respondents say that vocational education and training provides useful technical skills for the job, while 82% consider that it leads to real job opportunities. At the same time, 66% believe that it leads to well-paying jobs.
More than half of respondents said that the main reason why people choose vocational education and training is to start working and earn money sooner.
According to the research, vocational education and training combines classroom learning with practical experience to equip learners with skills that employers need.
73% believe that it offers high-quality learning, 79% say that it is provided by competent teachers, and 78% believe that it benefits from modern infrastructure.
Many respondents also recognise the potential for advancement, with 67% believing that vocational education and training provide pathways to higher education, while 64% see opportunities to study abroad as an added benefit.
When deciding whether to choose vocational education and training, 53% of Europeans say they are mainly influenced by job prospects and earnings. This is followed by family advice, with 35% and teachers or counsellors, with 28%.
The survey shows that citizens still identify restrictions in vocational education and training. Half of respondents feel that it does not do enough to teach basic skills, such as reading, writing and digital skills, or broader skills, such as communication and critical thinking.
Gender stereotypes also remain an issue, with 71% agreeing that women often gravitate towards general education rather than technical subjects, which, according to the survey, limits their choices and career prospects.
CNA
