Introduction

The Association of Slovene Higher Vocational Colleges (Association HVC) was established on 20 April 2005 as a network of institutions operating in accordance with regulations governing public institutions. Today, Association HVC represents, advocates for, and pursues the common interests of 49 public and private higher vocational colleges, collaborating with national, local, and international authorities and organizations.

Its key role is connecting higher vocational colleges with stakeholders in education, training, and the economy, as well as shaping policies and implementing projects within the higher education and professional research sector. In this way, it directly contributes to the development of local communities and regions.

VISION AND MISSION

Association of Slovene Higher Vocational Colleges is an institution representing and advocating for higher vocational education in both Slovenian and international contexts. It acts as a promotional hub for higher vocational education and organizes the exchange of information and good practices. It ensures quality interconnection among all stakeholders, provides professional support to its members, addresses systemic challenges, organizes training and expert consultations, and encourages and supports the development and renewal of all types of higher vocational education programs, with an emphasis on flexibility and specialization. It prepares, participates in, and implements development projects and, as a project office, provides support to its members.

The mission of Association HVC is to represent the common positions and interests of public, private, or individual higher vocational colleges in Slovenia and abroad. It supports its members and promotes cooperation in education, training, research, and development, aiming to increase innovation and entrepreneurship. In its work, Skupnost VSŠ highlights and adheres to the highest quality standards.

CORE ACTIVITIES

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

  • Preparation, participation in, and implementation of (international) development projects,
  • Organization of events, including annual conferences, thematic seminars, and consultations,
  • Promotion and development of higher vocational education.
STRATEGY OF THE ASSOCIATION OF SLOVENE HIGHER VOCATIONAL COLLEGES

Higher vocational education, as part of tertiary education, plays an important and distinct role within the educational system and society as a whole. This stems from its role in meeting labor market needs. A significant amount of practical training that students complete with employers allows them to familiarize themselves with the work environment and modern technological processes while still studying, facilitating their transition to the labor market. At the same time, employers get to know and train their future employees during their education >>.