Introduction

The Association of Slovene Higher Vocational Colleges (Association HVC), was established on April 20, 2005, to represent and advocate for the interests of 49 public and private higher vocational colleges
in Slovenia. Its main goal is to connect colleges with stakeholders in education, trainning, and the economy, as well as develop policies and implenet projects in higher education and professional research. By doing so, it plays a crucial role in the advancement of local communities and regions.

VISION AND MISSION

The Association HVC is an institution that presents and represents higher professional education in the Slovenian and international environment. It acts as a promotion centre for higher professional education and organizes the exchange of information and good practices. It takes care of the high-quality interconnection between all stakeholders. It offers professional support to members, solves system problems, and organizes training and professional consultations. It promotes and supports the development and renewal of various higher education programs to be flexible and specialized, with an emphasis on meeting the needs of students and the labour market.

The mission of the Association HVC is to represent the collective opinions and interests of public, private or individual higher vocational colleges in both Slovenian and international contexts. It provides assistance to its members while promoting integration in education, training, research and development to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. The Association HVC adheres to the highest quality standards in its activities.

CENTRAL ACTIVITIES

As a center of higher vocational education, the Association HVC performs the following activities:

  • preparation, cooperation and implementation of (international) development projects,
  • organization of events, including annual conferences, thematic seminars and consultations,
  • care for the development and promotion of post-secondary professional education.

ASSOCIATION HVC’s STRATEGY

Higher vocational education is an essential and unique part of the education system and society as a whole, primarily due to its role in meeting the demands of the labour market. The significant amount of practical training that students undergo during their studies enables them to familiarize themselves with the working environment and modern technological processes, which eases their transition into the labour market. Simultaneously, employers can familiarize themselves with and enhance their future employees’ skills during their education.