Virtual Study Visit to Austria: Recognition, Validation and Certification of Skills Acquired Through Non-Formal Learning, Community Work and Volunteering

Topic and Purpose

On 27–28 November 2025, a Virtual Study Visit to Austria will take place, dedicated to the topic of recognition, validation, and certification of skills acquired through non-formal learning, volunteering, and community work.
The event is organised in the framework of cooperation between EU4Youth: Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship (EU4Youth YEE) Programme, co-funded by the European Union and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania and implemented by the Central Project Management Agency (CPVA) with the European Centre for Freedom and Independence (EUCFI) as the Austrian co-organising partner.

The purpose of the study visit is to present Austria’s model for the validation of non-formal and informal learning as a practical example of cooperation between education, youth policy, and labour market sectors, and to provide Eastern Partnership stakeholders with practical insights and tools to strengthen their own national systems.

Context and Rationale

In most Eastern Partnership countries, systems for validating skills acquired outside formal education are still in development. Austria, on the other hand, has built a comprehensive and coherent model based on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and strong cooperation between ministries, agencies, social partners, and civil society.

During the visit, participants will explore how this model operates in practice and what mechanisms make it sustainable and effective.

Format and Dates

• Format: Online (Zoom)

• Dates: 27–28 November 2025

• Working language: English

• Participation: Free of charge

The program will include:

• Expert presentations from Austrian institutions

• Thematic case studies and Q&A sessions

• Group discussions and networking opportunities

Who Can Participate

The study visit is open to professionals from Eastern Partnership countries who:

• Work in education, youth policy, or public administration

• Develop or implement policies related to skills validation

• Represent NGOs, youth centres, or educational institutions

How to Participate

• Please complete the registration form to confirm your participation.

• Registration is open until 20 November 2025.

• After registration, you will receive a confirmation email and a Zoom link approximately one week before the event.

Join Us

Be part of an international dialogue on how learning beyond classrooms shapes employability and recognition.
Follow EUCFI channels for updates, and join the Virtual Study Visit to explore how Austria connects education, youth work, and skills development in practice.