Goals:
To improve the fit between the training provided by technological colleges and the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for various professions.
To increase the quality of human capital in a given field by raising the percentage of workers in that field to 80%.
To support workforce integration by ensuring that 80% of certified workers are employed.
The Need:
The program was developed after research by the Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs and Social Services in July 2018 identified the need to better align the content of technical courses with the demands of the workforce. As part of the research, students from Israel’s technological colleges were asked about how well their studies prepared them for a career in their field. Only 40% reported a level of satisfaction. In addition, the professional experience was found to have a positive effect on a monthly salary, providing an additional NIS 2,200 ($650). Furthermore, inexperienced workers had twice as many difficulties on the job as those with experience.
Activities:
The program implements reforms in technological education by involving employers in planning curricula and training, developing apprenticeships and work-study programs, incorporating life skills development, and securing supplementary government funding based on the Pay for Success model. The program also includes a pilot program that provides an additional year of training for experienced engineers to study management, training, or an additional field in practical engineering.