WILLEMSTAD – A major step toward structural collaboration in vocational education within the Kingdom of the Netherlands is being taken today in Curaçao. Leaders from vocational education institutions across the Caribbean islands are signing a Letter of Intent to establish the Caribbean Vocational Education Council of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (CVECK).
The council aims to foster closer cooperation, strengthen the quality of vocational training, and improve student mobility and progression across the Kingdom.
The initiative was launched during a two-day conference held at Amazia on Curaçao, bringing together representatives from various Caribbean vocational institutions. The event is part of ongoing efforts to deepen educational ties between the Caribbean region and the European Netherlands.
Focus on Strengthening Local Vocational Training
While previous efforts have focused on improving support and transitions for Caribbean students in higher education in the Netherlands, CVECK shifts the spotlight to enhancing vocational education within the islands themselves.
On the first day of the conference, education leaders signed the Letter of Intent, formally marking the creation of the CVECK. The council will serve as a joint platform for dialogue with the vocational education consortium in the European Netherlands.
Participants showcased their institutional strengths and areas in need of development, and joined breakout sessions on key topics such as infrastructure, curriculum development, and professional training. The agenda also included a site visit to the Leerhotel in Parasasa, a training facility that blends education with hospitality industry experience.
Concrete Commitments on Day Two
The second day of the conference will be dedicated to finalizing agreements on how the council will operate. These include the frequency of meetings, roles and responsibilities, communication channels, and alignment with education policy in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.
A program manager will be appointed, and participants will sign a joint work plan to guide future collaboration. The event will conclude with a networking reception at Hotel Corendon.
The creation of CVECK marks a significant milestone in building a more unified and supportive vocational education system throughout the Kingdom—one that is better equipped to meet the needs of Caribbean students and their communities.
