From TVET data availability to data usability for policymaking

Truly global and harmonised data on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) remain relatively limited, reflecting factors such as system heterogeneity, varying statistical capacity, and differences in definitions and measurement approaches. At the same time, improving the availability and usability of such data may play an important role in supporting more evidence-informed policymaking and strengthening TVET systems. 

This workshop is designed to inform the development of a policy brief within the context of the Global TVET Data Report, focusing on the shift from data availability to data usability. It will explore how policymakers currently use TVET data, the potential constraints they may face in relying on harmonised data, and areas where data systems could be strengthened. 

With a technical and practice-oriented focus, the workshop will draw on participants’ experience to: 

• Share insights on how TVET data are used in policymaking contexts .

• Share challenges encountered in using Global TVET Data .

• Identify structural, methodological, and institutional factors that may affect data usability .

• Explore emerging practices and potential approaches to enhance the policy relevance of TVET data.

Participants’ contributions will help shape the analytical framing and emerging directions of the technical note, as well as inform the broader Global TVET Data Report,  a collaborative effort to strengthen the global evidence base, support policy dialogue, and advance international co-operation on TVET. 

Please note that participation in the workshop will be limited to ensure an interactive discussion format and to allow for focused exchanges among participants working directly on TVET policy and data. Places will therefore be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. 

If you are interested in participating, please register by 10 June. You will receive a confirmation email confirming your place by 12 June.

16:00 – 16:05 | Opening remarks [OECD and the German Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB)]

• Introduction to the TVET Global Data Initiative
• Introduction to the workshop

16:05 – 16:15 | Presentation (OECD)

• How has harmonised data shaped TVET/education policy?

16:15 – 16:45 | Discussion (breakout rooms), participants divided between two discussions (Moderated by OECD): 

1. Insights on how TVET data are used in policymaking contexts
2. Challenges encountered in using Global TVET Data

16:45 – 16:50 | Report back from breakout rooms

16:50 – 17:20 | Discussion (breakout rooms), participants divided between two discussions (Moderated by OECD):

1. Causes of limited availability and fragmentation of global TVET data
2. Solutions and emerging practices to enhance the policy relevance of TVET data

17:20 – 17:25 | Report back from breakout rooms (Moderated by OECD)

17:25 – 17:30 | Closing (OECD and BIBB)

• Next steps for the TVET Global Data Report
• Next steps for the Towards a Global TVET Agenda (TGTA) initiative