Apprenticeships

Quality apprenticeships are based on a robust regulatory framework and strong social dialogue. They can contribute to improve the employability of learners, boost the productivity of enterprises, and help countries face challenges of formalisation and climate adaptation and mitigation.

Historically, apprenticeships have been considered primarily as a means of facilitating the school-to-work transition for young people. However, in the context of a fast-changing world of work, the apprenticeship model is empowering both youth and older workers to acquire new skills, reskill and upskill throughout their working lives.

A new Recommendation on Quality Apprenticeships was adopted during the 111th International Labour Conference, in 2023. It is designed to support "opportunities for people of all ages to skill, reskill and upskill continuously" in rapidly changing labour markets.

Key features of the Recommendation:

• Social dialogue: employers and workers’ organizations play a key role in developing, implementing and overseeing apprenticeships.
• Regulatory framework: well-designed regulations ensure quality.
• Rights and protection: apprentices have rights and are entitled to adequate protection.
• Equality and diversity: apprenticeships framework need to promote equality, diversity and social inclusion.