Supporting diverse communities through improved vocational education 

This article series presents cases of innovations built here in Espoo that strive for a better tomorrow for all.

Omnia, the Joint Authority of Education in the Espoo region and a UNESCO-UNEVOC Center of Excellence in Finland, aims to improve vocational education and training (VET) worldwide. Recognizing the importance of quality education and skill development, Omnia is dedicated to innovative practices that support both local and global communities.

Omnia’s Skills Centre for Immigrants (OSKE) has been nominated by UNESCO for Promising and Innovative Practice in TVET by UNESCO for the acting model with Skills Assessment, Job Search and Training Path. Additionally, Omnia has led EU Twinning Projects in Egypt, Kosovo, and Moldova and has been a junior partner in Cambodia since 2024. Twinning projects are EU initiatives that foster institutional cooperation between public administrations in member states and beneficiary countries.

Through its leadership in Twinning Projects, Omnia has developed the PVTD (TVET Education) system in Egypt, strengthened and developed the education system in Kosovo, and enhanced the quality and effectiveness of the VET system in Moldova, aligning it with EU and Bologna process standards. In Cambodia, Omnia supports upper secondary technical education reforms.

Omnia’s efforts have led to significant improvements in VET systems, ensuring they meet international best practices and quality standards. In Egypt, Kosovo, and Moldova, Omnia’s projects have upgraded education systems, contributing to better skill development and employment opportunities. Innovative approaches, recognized by UNESCO, highlight the potential for vocational education to drive socio-economic growth and integration both locally and globally.