The Laying the Foundations was born out of the need to bridge the growing divide between vocational education and the demands of today’s labor market. Recognizing the challenges posed by skills mismatches, digital transformation, and socio-economic disparities, this initiative seeks to transform VET into a dynamic, inclusive, and future-ready system.
By focusing on holistic skill development, digital literacy, and equitable opportunities, the Lying the Foundations aims to empower students and educators alike, ensuring that VET becomes a true driver of progress and prosperity. Welcome to the foundation of a brighter future.
The mission of Laying the Foundations is to transform Vocational Education and Training (VET) into a powerful tool for empowerment, inclusivity, and innovation. By addressing critical skills gaps, fostering digital literacy, and creating a supportive learning environment, the project aims to equip students in eastern countries like Moldova, Georgia, and Ukraine with the competencies needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving labor market. The project aims to ensure that VET becomes a pathway to success for all, particularly for disadvantaged learners, by aligning education with the demands of the modern workforce and promoting socio-economic development.
Our vision is to create a future where VET is synonymous with opportunity, resilience, and relevance. We envision a world where every student, regardless of their background, has access to high-quality vocational education that prepares them for the challenges of the 21st century. By fostering collaboration between EU and Eastern Neighborhood countries, the project aims to build a sustainable, inclusive, and innovative VET system that not only meets the needs of the labor market but also drives economic growth, social cohesion, and lifelong learning.
The Laying the Foundations consortium is a dynamic collaboration of partners from the EU and Eastern Neighborhood countries, each bringing unique expertise and experience in Vocational Education and Training (VET). Comprising 11 full partners and 2 associated partners, our consortium includes VET providers, educational NGOs, private companies, and ministries of education. Together, we are united by a shared vision: to transform VET into a system that empowers students, bridges skills gaps, and fosters socio-economic development.
Our consortium is divided into:
At the core of Laying the Foundations lies a commitment to collaboration that bridges borders and cultures. We believe that by uniting our strengths, sharing knowledge, and learning from one another, we can create a transformative impact far greater than any single effort. Our project is rooted in mutual respect, transparent communication, and a shared dedication to excellence in Vocational Education and Training. Together, we are building a foundation for innovation, inclusivity, and lasting change in the VET sector.
The Laying the Foundations is all about making a real difference in vocational education and the lives of students. We want to do more than just teach skills for jobs, we aim to help students become leaders who can boost their communities and economies. By focusing on fairness, creativity, and teamwork, we follow the EU’s values of equality, respect, and giving everyone a chance to succeed.
This isn’t just a project, it’s a step toward a better future. A future where education opens doors, connects people, and builds stronger societies. Join us on this journey, and together, let’s create a foundation for a world where everyone has the tools to thrive.
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
Coordinator of the Laying the Foundations Project:
European Association of Institutes for Vocational Training
Diana Nitu
Project Manager
diana.nitu@evbb.eu