Delegation from Oman visits Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training

BIBB Division 3.1 hosted three heads of department and an expert in international relations from the Omani Ministry of Higher Education, Innovation and Research, and the head of a Vocational College from 19 to 22 June 2023 at the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB). The visit took place on the initiative of the European Commission and as part of the TAIEX programme (Technical Assistance and Information Exchange Instrument of the European Commission).

The reason for the visit was the fundamental reforms currently under way in the Omani education system where the aim is to place a greater focus on vocational education and training. The interest from the Omani visitors ranged from the development of labour market-relevant training programmes at EQF levels 3-6 and the qualification of training personnel through to the role of the different stakeholders when designing the system. The aim of the visit to BIBB was therefore to become familiar with the facets of the German dual system and to reflect on these in terms of the Omani reform efforts in vocational education and training. In addition to technical discussions with BIBB experts, the programme was also supported by “field” visits. Visits were made specifically to the training campus of the Cologne Chamber of Crafts and Trades, the Marc Schmitz GmbH training company in Cologne, and the Bonn-Sieg Chamber of Commerce and Industry.