The impact of the EU's common regional policy on the vocational and technical education system in Poland (multi-annual financial framework 2007–2013 and 2014–2020)

Abstract

The article analyses the impact of the European Union's common regional policy on the vocational education and training (VET) system in Poland within the framework of the multiannual financial frameworks for 2007–2013 and 2014–2020. Poland's accession to the EU provided access to support from European structural and investment funds, which not only modernised the economy but also contributed to profound transformations in the field of education, particularly vocational education. The VET system, which was in crisis until the early 2000s, received a significant boost to its development thanks to financial support from the European Social Fund (ESF) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

The article analyses the key areas of reform of the Polish vocational education system with European financial support: upgrading the infrastructure of educational institutions, developing dual education, introducing digital tools into the learning process, improving the qualifications of teaching staff and strengthening cooperation between schools, employers and local authorities. Particular attention is paid to the Operational Programme ‘Knowledge. Education. Development’ (PO WER), which was the main financial mechanism for supporting VET in 2014-2020, as well as to regional operational programmes within which infrastructure projects were implemented.

The effectiveness of the mechanisms used was examined, the positive effects of the programmes and projects implemented (modernisation of the educational base, development of partnerships, introduction of new forms of training) were outlined, and the key challenges faced by the Polish vocational education system were identified, including a shortage of practical teachers, the complexity of project submission procedures, and the need for greater flexibility in funding. It is emphasised that the EU's common regional policy not only provided tools for the development of vocational education, but also contributed to the formation of new management practices at the intersection of education, the labour market, and local self-government.

It is concluded that EU funding support for vocational education in 2007–2020 has been a catalyst for long-term structural change, but the sustainability of the results will depend on continued funding in the new financial period and effective management at the national level.