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A national qualifications framework (NQF) is an instrument used to classify a country's qualifications at different levels. Each level is defined by a set of learning outcomes expected at that level. NQFs can be useful tools in education and training reforms and are vital reference points for lifelong learning and comparing qualifications across borders. The "Global Inventory of Regional and National Qualifications frameworks 2017, Volume II: National and regional cases" gives an update on the national and regional qualification frameworks of 99 countries around the world. For each country, the NQF has been analysed based on the policy objectives, the levels and use of learning outcomes, stakeholder involvement and institutional arrangements, the recognition of non-formal and informal learning as well as whether references are made to existing regional frameworks. In addition, this volume also outlines existing regional frameworks in Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, the Gulf region, the Pacific, Southern Africa and the Commonwealth States. This third edition (the first two editions appeared in 2013 and 2015) of the "Global Inventory of Regional and National Qualifications Frameworks" is published at a time when the attention being paid to qualifications frameworks is rising, as evidenced by the UN's Education 2030 Framework for Action and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which calls on countries to promote inclusive and equitable education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. Outcomes-based qualifications frameworks can contribute directly to achieving this goal. The "Global Inventory of Regional and National Qualifications Frameworks 2017, Volume II" is the result of collaborative work developed by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop), the European Training Foundation (ETF), UNESCO and the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL). [The thematic chapters, and national and regional cases were drafted by: Jens Bjørnåvold, Slava Pevec Grm, Ernesto Villalba and George Kostakis, Anastasia Pouliou and Andreea Rusu (Cedefop); Michael Graham and Arjen Dej and all members of the qualifications team (ETF); Borhene Chakroun and Katerina Ananiadou (UNESCO); and Madhu Singh (UIL). For Volume I: Thematic Chapters, see ED604734.]

This research paper is the fifth in a series produced as part of the Cedefop project The changing nature and role of VET (2016-18). Based on comparative analysis of labour force survey data from 2014, the report analyses the vocational effect on labour market and education outcomes, asking whether any advantages conferred by vocational qualifications in early career would be offset by disadvantages later in life. The report explores the functioning of the safety net and the diversion effects across countries, demonstrating how these vary considerably with the specific institutional structure of schooling and work-based training. The results indicate that VET graduates are potentially sacrificing the longer-term gains associated with further education in favour of short-term benefits. [This research was carried out by a consortium led by 3s Unternehmensberatung GmbH and including the Danish Technological Institute, the Institute of Employment Research (University of Warwick), the Institute of International and Social Studies (Tallinn University) and Fondazione Giacomo Brodolini. The Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) in Germany is supporting the project as a subcontractor.]

In a highly competitive global landscape, occupations are transformed, new jobs are created and the skills needed for the labour market are constantly changing. European countries are looking at redefining VET [vocational education and training] to respond promptly to such challenges and take advantage of the opportunities ahead. They are reforming to modernise their VET systems and strengthen the relevance of their national qualifications in an international context. This publication explores national responses to globalisation in 15 countries and five economic sectors. It aims to understand how European and international initiatives help VET renewal across Europe. It shows how countries' reactions are embedded in their national traditions but also depend on their interactions with European, sectoral and multinational players that provide training and award qualifications. [The research was carried out by a consortium led by IBE Educational research institute and 3s Unternehmensberatung GmbH.]