From May 20 to 23, 2025, Turin, Italy, hosted an international capacity-building and peer-learning seminar dedicated to the establishment and development of Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs). The event, organized by the European Training Foundation (ETF) within the framework of the DARYA project, with the support of the Network of Centres of Vocational Excellence (ENE) and funding from the European Union, brought together delegations from five Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan), as well as representatives from EU and Eastern Partnership countries. The working languages were English and Russian.

The seminar served as an important platform for the exchange of experience in the field of vocational education and training (VET), highlighting the role of CoVEs as key agents of change. Discussions took place in an interactive and practice-oriented format, including:

1. A comparative analysis of CoVE models in various countries.

2. The study of best practices.

3. The development of country-specific development plans, taking into account national characteristics.

Detailed Seminar Programme

Day 1: Introduction to the Concept and Current Situation

The first day was dedicated to familiarizing participants with the international concept of vocational excellence and the current state of CoVE development in the participating countries. Delegates:

• Presented national CoVE models and existing practices.

• Learned about European strategic documents in the field of VET.

• Visited two CoVEs in Turin, where they saw the practical application of excellence development tools and interaction with employers.

Day 2: Discussion of Key Aspects and Cooperation

The second day began with an exchange of views on the outcomes of the visits to the Italian CoVEs. Participants:

• Discussed the key "ingredients" of vocational excellence: quality teaching, partnerships with business, digitalization, and sustainability.

• Worked in international and country-specific groups.

• Examined examples of successful partnerships within the ENE.

• Concluded the day with an informal dinner and a guided tour of Turin, fostering the strengthening of professional ties.

Day 3: ISATCOVE Implementation and Future Plans

The final day was dedicated to the International Self-Assessment Tool for Centres of Vocational Excellence (ISATCOVE). Participants:

• Were introduced to the ISATCOVE methodology.

• Heard about the experiences of Spain, Latvia, and Moldova in its implementation.

• Held country-specific sessions to select priority assessment criteria and formulate national CoVE development plans.

• Provided feedback and outlined concrete steps for further work over the next 12 months.

The seminar was highly productive, marking an important stage in the implementation of the teaching and learning components of the DARYA project. Discussions were characterized by high participant engagement and a practical focus, which contributed to strengthening regional and international cooperation in the field of vocational education.

All participants committed to presenting the insights gained to their national partners upon their return and to continuing work on the development of CoVEs within their national VET systems.

ORIENT