The main objective of the project was to develop an innovative and adapted approach to vocational education and training in the food industry through the update and internationalisation of the Ethazi model. The specific objectives we looked for were: Align training competences with real labour market needs. Develop innovative and multilingual training materials (English, Spanish, Italian, and Turkish). Train educators and trainers in the use of the adapted Ethazi model. Promote active learning methodologies based on real industry challenges. Foster social inclusion and entrepreneurship, especially among vulnerable groups. Improve the quality, relevance, and attractiveness of VET at the European level.
The project was applied for in response to the growing gap between vocational education and training (VET) and the real needs of the labour market in the food industry sector. A lack of qualified professionals with up-to-date competences was identified, particularly in digital skills, innovation, food safety, and entrepreneurship. In addition, the VET system needed to adapt in order to become more attractive, inclusive, and aligned with current sector demands. The project addresses these needs by modernising the Ethazi educational model, promoting active, practice-based learning methodologies. It also responds to the need to improve students’ employability, support vulnerable groups (such as migrant women), and foster international cooperation between educational institutions, NGOs, and food industry stakeholders.