On 18–19 March 2026, the ReferNet Partner Meeting took place in Budapest, Hungary. ReferNet is the leading European network for cooperation and information exchange in the field of Vocational Education and Training (VET).
The meeting was hosted by the Institute for the Development of Education (IKK), Hungary, and coordinated by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop). A total of 19 representatives from EU Member States participated in the event.
Key topics discussed included:
- Presentation of the Hungarian VET system and its latest innovations;
- Discussions on the implementation of dual VET, graduate tracking, and social inclusion;
- The role of artificial intelligence in vocational education and training.
Bulgaria was represented by Ms Petya Evtimova, National ReferNet Coordinator, who presented the project “Artificial Intelligence in Mentoring”, coordinated by the Bulgarian Industrial Association. The project has developed a Handbook on the Use of Artificial Intelligence by Mentors in Dual Vocational Education and Training, providing practical guidance for workplace mentors.
On the second day of the meeting, participants visited Petrik Lajos Technikum, one of Hungary’s leading vocational schools, offering programmes in chemistry, environmental sciences, and information technology. The visit showcased examples of high-quality vocational education in practice and demonstrated how schools cooperate with industry to prepare learners for the labour market.
The ReferNet Partner Meeting in Budapest once again highlighted the importance of:
- Strengthening European cooperation in vocational education and training;
- Promoting innovation in VET teaching and learning;
- Enhancing the connection between education and labour market needs to improve graduates’ employability.
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