SFUVET Act strengthens VPET system
From a federal institute to a higher education institution
On 1 August 2021, the new SFUVET Act came into effect following its unanimous approval by the Swiss Parliament. The Swiss Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (SFIVET) thus became the Swiss Federal University for Vocational Education and Training (SFUVET). This new legal basis is the prerequisite for SFUVET’s institutional accreditation as a university of teacher education. We expect to reach this target in 2022 – exactly fifty years after the founding of its predecessor organisation, the Swiss Pedagogical Institute for Vocational Education (SPIVE). Our institution’s fundamental remit will not change with its new higher education status. However, having a dedicated Federal Act will reinforce SFUVET’s positioning within the higher education sector, within the Swiss VPET system and the private sector. This new legal basis will thus help to reinforce Swiss VPET as a globally unique model in the education system.
Updating of ordinances
The higher education transformation requires the updating of several ordinances and regulations. The new SFUVET ordinance came into effect in 2021 and provides for more active involvement of professional organisations and cantons in strategic planning. SFUVET’s new fees ordinance also came into effect in 2021.
Developing strategic guidelines
During the reporting year, SFUVET developed its strategic guidelines for 2021–2028 in consultation with staff, the Confederation, the cantons, professional organisations and other external partners. This document provides a general frame of reference for SFUVET’s subsequent strategic steps towards becoming a university of teacher education. The priorities are listed below:
- Change and innovation in VET
- Digital transformation
- Environmental, social and economic sustainability
- Institutional identity and university culture
- Cooperation and agility