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MET-VET – Metacognition for
Environmental Thinking in VET
Project number:
2021-2-PL01-KA220-VET-000050783

The "Scuola 4.0" project, funded under the PNRR, represents a further step forward towards the
digitalisation of Italian schools. It aims to transform schools into highly digitalized learning
environments, aligned with European frameworks such as DigComp 2.1 and DigCompEdu. The main
objectives include: creating advanced digital environments, developing digital classrooms and
laboratories with cutting-edge technologies; continuous teacher training actions: updating courses to
improve teachers' digital skills and the adoption of new teaching methodologies.
An important financial instrument available to Italian schools, in particular VET schools, are the
European Structural Funds. Among these, the National Operational Program (PON) "For Schools - Skills
and environments for learning" is fundamental for financing educational and infrastructural innovation
projects. This program includes: infrastructure Funds, funding to improve school facilities, equip them
with modern technologies and create stimulating learning environments; social inclusion projects,
initiatives aimed at combating school dropout and promoting the inclusion of students with special
educational needs.
Furthermore, in Italy exist some foundation that support actions for schools, including VET ones
Fondazione Cariplo, for example, focuses on projects aimed at innovation, social inclusion, and
sustainability in education. By providing grants for initiatives that enhance teaching and learning,
Fondazione Cariplo plays a vital role in supporting the modernization of VET education.
Fondazione con il Sud, for instance, is dedicated to the development of southern Italy, including
educational improvements and provides grants for projects that promote social inclusion, innovation,
and sustainable development, thereby contributing to the enhancement of VET education in the
region.
Greece has made significant strides in enhancing its educational system, particularly in the realm of
Vocational Education and Training (VET). These efforts are part of a broader strategy to align education
with labor market needs, improve skills and employability, and integrate new teaching methodologies
and tools. The National Reform Programme (NRP) of Greece, in line with the Europe 2020 strategy,
underscores these objectives, emphasizing the modernization of the VET system. The National
Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF) 2014-2020 also plays a pivotal role, supporting projects aimed
at upgrading educational infrastructure, promoting lifelong learning, and enhancing VET quality. Key
among the initiatives is the comprehensive reform of VET and apprenticeships. This reform includes
the introduction of updated curricula, better alignment with industry requirements, and strengthened
apprenticeship programs. These reforms are critical in making VET more attractive and effective,
ensuring that students acquire relevant skills that meet the demands of the labor market. In addition,
the Digital School Initiative aims to integrate digital technologies into the education system
comprehensively. This initiative provides digital content, e-books, and online resources for both
teachers and students. Crucially, it includes professional development programs for teachers,
equipping them with the digital competencies necessary to leverage these new tools effectively in their
classrooms. In line with the European Union's Green Deal, Greece has initiated several programs to
embed green skills into VET curricula. These programs focus on sustainability, renewable energy, and
environmental protection, ensuring that students are prepared for careers in the burgeoning green
economy. Funding for these initiatives is supported by various national and European financial
instruments. In addition to the European Social Fund and European Regional Development Fund
(ERDF), which co-finances projects that improve educational infrastructure and support the integration
of new technologies in schools, there are also national funds and initiatives. At national level, the Public
Investment Programme allocates funds to support educational projects, including those aimed at
integrating new teaching tools and methods in VET schools. Additionally, the Operational Programme
“Competitiveness, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation” provides funding for projects that promote
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Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not
necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither
the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.