Campus Värnamo and Jönköping University’s School of engineering received approval January 13th for two new vocational higher education programs-Emergency and Security Coordinator and 3D-Print Technician-as Swedish businesses contend with a growing skills gap and fluctuating economic conditions.The programs, developed in collaboration with regional employers, aim to directly address workforce needs and build on existing vocational training initiatives. Approval from the Swedish Agency for Vocational Higher Education comes amid a 39% approval rate for all applications this cycle, highlighting the competitive process [[1]].
Campus Värnamo continues its development within vocational higher education with the new Emergency and Security Coordinator program and continued confidence in the 3D-Print Technician program. Image: Press image
Campus Värnamo and Jönköping University’s School of Engineering have received approval for two new vocational higher education programs, the Swedish Agency for Vocational Higher Education announced on January 13th. This news comes as businesses across Sweden grapple with a widening skills gap.
“It’s fantastic news that both the Emergency and Security Coordinator and 3D-Print Technician programs have been approved,” said Niclas Stensson, Development Strategist at Campus Värnamo. “These are important programs not just for Värnamo and the region, but for Sweden as a whole. Once again, we’ve demonstrated excellent timing with our program applications.”
The expansion of vocational higher education comes at a time of economic uncertainty, with high unemployment rates coinciding with significant challenges for employers in recruiting qualified personnel. Campus Värnamo and Jönköping University collaborated with regional employers to develop the curricula for both the Emergency and Security Coordinator and 3D-Print Technician programs, ensuring they meet current market demands.
“This is a skillset that is needed in Värnamo, the region, and throughout Sweden,” stated Marcus Skytt, Security Manager at Värnamo Municipality and the initiator of the Emergency and Security Coordinator program. “The need will only continue to grow.”
Addinor has welcomed the Agency’s decision to extend its approval for the 3D-Print Technician program. “We see this as recognition of the program’s quality and importance, and we look forward to continuing our close and long-term collaboration with Campus Värnamo,” said Christoffer Wester, Chairman of the Management Group for 3D-Print Technician and Sales and Marketing Manager at Addinor. He added:
“The Management Group will continue to focus on ensuring the program’s relevance to labor market needs and maintaining the high quality that has contributed to the program’s strong demand. Addinor intends to continue providing students with access to the latest technology in the field and enabling internships with relevant companies in the industry.”
Key Statistics from the Swedish Agency for Vocational Higher Education:
∗ The Agency approved 462 out of 1,184 applications received, representing a 39% approval rate.
∗ The Technology and Manufacturing sector remains the largest within vocational higher education, with 117 new programs approved, now accounting for 21% of the total vocational higher education offerings.
∗ The Security Services sector saw a 130% increase in student places, rising from 237 last year to 507 this year.
∗ The Agency approved a lower percentage of distance education programs compared to the previous year: 42% versus 45%.
∗ The proportion of programs located in the three major metropolitan regions decreased from 53% to 49%, while the proportion in other regions increased from 28% to 30%. The number of programs offered in multiple locations has also increased.
