Effective governance and coordination in skills systems: towards a lifelong learning ecosystem

Effective governance and coordination are key elements of successful skill systems. Whilst coordination is an important factor, it needs to operate alongside other key conditions to strengthen governance. When multi-level governance is supported by effective communication, sustainable financing and effective coordination, it has the best chance of supporting the establishment of an LLL ecosystem that enables individuals and enterprises to more effectively navigate the world of work and learning. This policy brief revises the key issues that affect governance and coordination in skill systems and proposes a number of measures and principles through which reforms can take place. It has drawn on recent research by the ILO, UNESCO and other international organisations to highlight the importance of coordination and demonstrates how more effective coordination can have tangible positive effects on governance and key areas of policy and practice in skill systems.