On 13th of January in Varna, a meeting was conducted as part of the PATHS project implementation, significant progress has been made toward establishing the Career Guidance Expert, Coordination and Methodology Team (CG ECMT) and advancing the development of the Local Public Support System (LPSS) Strategy.
Strengthening Local Labour Market Cooperation
The second Local Labour Market Forum meeting was successfully held in Varna, gathering 13 representatives from key institutions, including:
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Ministry of Labour and Social Policy
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Ministry of Labour and Social Policy – Varna
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Directorate of Labour Bureau – Varna
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Territorial Centre for Qualification and Re-Qualification
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Foundation “Joy for Our Children”
The forum resulted in the selection of two pilot activities:
✔ Open Workplace Days
✔ Workshops for Vulnerable Groups
Participants agreed on the initial scope of implementation, target municipalities, employer involvement, and a flexible approach toward defining vulnerable groups.
This strong institutional cooperation laid the foundation for the next strategic step, the formation of the CG ECMT.
Composition of the CG ECMT
The CG ECMT is responsible for developing the LPSS Strategy and the corresponding Action Plan at the local level.
The team consists of ten experts with proven experience in:
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Career counselling and professional orientation
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Labour market trends and skills forecasting
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Primary and secondary vocational education
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Higher education career centre coordination
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Employment services
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Adult education and vocational training
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Civil society career guidance models
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Human resource management and competency frameworks
At least one member represents the project partner organisation, ensuring strategic alignment with project objectives.
The composition ensures an evidence-based, inclusive, and multi-sectoral approach to career guidance system development.
Work and Strategic Development
Three CG ECMT meetings are foreseen:
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Two during the LPSS Strategy development phase
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One during the Action Plan development phase
The first meeting was focused on:
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Presentation of collected national data
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SWOT and PESTLE analyses
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Defining the vision and mission of the LPSS Strategy
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Setting strategic goals, priorities, and measures
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Establishing monitoring indicators and an evaluation framework
Preparatory steps include expert interviews, cross-analysis of findings, and drafting strategic documents to ensure informed and effective discussions.
A Structured and Evidence-Based Approach
The process is supported by:
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Detailed methodological guidance
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Structured analytical tools
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Clear documentation and reporting requirements
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Defined timelines and responsibilities
This comprehensive approach ensures that the LPSS Strategy will respond to national labour market needs, education system challenges, and long-term employability goals.
The establishment of the CG ECMT marks a crucial milestone in strengthening career guidance systems and fostering sustainable employment pathways at the local level.
