Higher vocational education remains key to securing a skilled workforce

Around 70 per cent of businesses rate higher vocational education positively, with only eight per cent expressing criticism. Currently, most companies are able to meet their demand for qualified skilled workers. At the same time, around two-thirds of businesses attach great importance to HBB.

However, this favourable situation is under pressure, as study director Dr Roland Scherer from the University of St. Gallen emphasises: 'Higher vocational education is a cornerstone of skilled workforce development in the region.' Dr Scherer, Director of the Institute for Systemic Management and Public Governance (IMP-HSG), says: 'Skills shortages, technological change and rising demands are shaping the development of higher vocational education.'

The practical relevance of higher vocational education remains central

Companies are calling for content to be updated dynamically, to align with the latest technological developments, and for greater flexibility in terms of timing and hybrid or digital formats. Practical relevance remains central. 'The decisive factor will be how quickly we can adapt the programmes to the changing needs of companies,' says Scherer, who is an expert in regional economics and location management at HSG.

The study is based on a survey of 1,065 companies, among other things. It shows that higher vocational education is widely accepted and fundamentally well positioned. However, the operating environment is changing due to factors such as increasing competition in the continuing education market, changing student expectations, and technological developments. Scherer identifies clear signs that further development is needed: ‘We see a stable starting point, but also a need for structural adjustment.’

A cornerstone of the Eastern Swiss economy, most companies expect HBB to grow in importance over the next five years. This is crucial for St. Gallen as a business location. This is because higher vocational education is exceptionally well-established in the canton; over 20 per cent of the working-age population here hold a relevant qualification, which is significantly higher than the Swiss average. Conclusion: Higher vocational education is a cornerstone of the Eastern Swiss economy. In order to ensure that this remains the case, the sector must develop in a targeted manner, aligning more closely with the needs of businesses. It must also adapt to a dynamic world of work.

About the study

The study, Regional Perspective on Higher Vocational Education and Training in the Canton of St.Gallen, was conducted by the Institute for Systemic Management and Public Governance at the University of St.Gallen (IMP-HSG), in collaboration with the IHK St.Gallen-Appenzell Chamber of Commerce. It is based on data analysis, interviews, and a business survey involving 1,065 participants. The study was commissioned by the Office for Vocational Education and Training of the Canton of St.Gallen. The study is available to download here.

Picture: State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI