Šolski center Nova Gorica becomes Slovenia’s first UNEVOC Centre

Šolski center Nova Gorica (ŠCNG) was officially inaugurated into the UNEVOC Network on 20 June 2025, becoming Slovenia’s first UNEVOC Centre. The institution joins a global alliance committed to advancing technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

The hybrid ceremony gathered local and international TVET stakeholders, including partners, public officials and representatives from UNEVOC Centres, highlighting a shared commitment to innovative, inclusive and forward-looking TVET.

About the UNEVOC Network

The UNEVOC Network is UNESCO’s global platform for supporting Member States in strengthening and modernizing TVET systems. It connects over 240 Centres in more than 150 countries to foster knowledge sharing, capacity building, policy dialogue and collaborative projects. The Network’s goal is to empower learners, teachers and trainers with accessible, high-quality TVET that responds to current labour market needs and supports the integration of digital skills and sustainability.

Members of the Network, referred to as UNEVOC Centres, can connect with an international community of educators, experts and institutions focused on improving skills development and youth employment worldwide.

ŠCNG’s path to Network membership

Šolski center Nova Gorica has established itself as a leader in TVET reform at the regional and European level. Through participation in initiatives such as the EUproVET network and the European Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs), the institution has actively contributed to creating innovative curricula and fostering partnerships across sectors.

“To make connections sustainable and contribute to addressing global challenges, we set a goal to officially join the UNEVOC Network,” said Adrijana Hodak, Head of the Intercompany Training Centre (MIC) at ŠCNG. “This is a prestigious role that we were longing for, and it is a great honour that we received this through our hard work.”

The ceremony was also attended by Friedrich Huebler, Head of UNESCO-UNEVOC, who welcomed ŠCNG into the Network. “ŠCNG joins a vibrant cohort of 15 new UNEVOC Centres from 14 countries. Each institution was chosen not only for its technical strength, but also for its demonstrated commitment to inclusive and quality technical and vocational education and training,” he noted.

ŠCNG Director Miran Saksida highlighted the potential of the new partnership, “It means that now we are part of a global Network of schools that work together to improve technical and vocational education and training. We will share knowledge, learn from others and help our students to gain skills for the future.”

Recently, ŠCNG representatives visited the Mauritius Institute of Training and Development, a UNEVOC Centre, where they were welcomed by the Minister of Education—an early sign of ŠCNG’s expanding global engagement.

Exploring innovative learning environments

The inauguration included tours of two key ŠCNG facilities. The Intercompany Training Centre (MIC) is a modern hub preparing students for careers in engineering, advanced manufacturing and technical professions. Visitors explored training units equipped with the latest machinery and digital tools, observing how education is closely aligned with industry needs through real-world projects in partnership with local companies.

Participants also visited the Biotechnical School, which specializes in sustainable agriculture, food production and environmental stewardship. The school’s emphasis on regional engagement and student-led sustainability projects demonstrates its commitment to combining technical skills with ecological and social responsibility.