The second Diversity Workshop under the AEQUALIS4TCLF project (Addressing Skills Gaps in the European Textile, Clothing, Leather and Footwear Industries, Emphasising Equality, Innovation and Resilience) took place at the Celje School Centre (Slovenia).
The event was organized by Mateja Logar (SC Celje) and Katja Kek and Dr. Daniela Zavec from the Slovene Textile Association, with support from the Erasmus+ Programme and the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA).
Exploring Diversity, Skills, and Innovation
The workshop, titled “Enhancing Professional and Pedagogical Knowledge – EU Developments in Textiles, Migrant Inclusion, and Micro-Credentials”, gathered VET educators and professionals from Slovenian textile schools for a full-day programme of expert lectures, panel discussions, and experience sharing.
Key topics included:
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New EU policies and innovations in the textile and fashion sector
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Integration of migrant workers and students into vocational education
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Implementation of micro-credentials and updates to VET curricula
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Advances in sustainable and smart textile materials
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The role of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes
Dr. Daniela Zavec presented the latest developments in smart and advanced materials, emphasising the need for VET institutions to prepare students for rapid technological change.
Katja Kek outlined the current progress of the AEQUALIS project, while Carmen Arias introduced the Pact for Skills, sparking discussion on strengthening cooperation between schools and industry partners.
Focus on Inclusion and Integration
A significant part of the workshop addressed the inclusion of migrant workers and foreign students in Slovenian education and the textile sector.
Juan Andres Ahčin presented national data on foreign employees and discussed opportunities for greater social and professional integration.
During a round-table session led by Mateja Logar, participants shared first-hand experiences with international learners in VET programs.
They highlighted challenges such as language barriers, cultural adaptation, and the need for improved support systems to ensure equal learning opportunities.
Adapting Education to Industry Needs
Afternoon sessions focused on the evolving needs of the TCLF industries and their connection to education.
Speakers emphasised the importance of aligning school curricula with current industrial trends and ensuring flexibility through micro-credentials.
Participants agreed that collaboration between schools, policymakers, and businesses is key to building a more resilient and inclusive sector.
Feedback and Impact
The workshop hosted 13 participants on site and 2 online, with a post-event feedback survey showing highly positive results:
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Most participants found the content very relevant and engaging.
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The most valued aspects were expert presentations, real-life examples, and interactive discussions.
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Future interests include topics such as digital transformation, advanced sustainable technologies, diversity in employment, and well-being in the workplace.
All respondents indicated they would recommend similar events to colleagues, reflecting strong appreciation and motivation for continued professional development.