THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF EDUCATION AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING IN THE CURRENT GLOBAL CONTEXT: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS – EUROPE VS. USA

In the current global context, marked by accelerated digitalization, ecological transition, and structural labor market shifts, vocational education and training (VET) systems have become strategic levers for increasing economic competitiveness and workforce adaptability. This article provides a comparative analysis of the economic impact of VET systems in the European Union (EU) and the United States of America (USA), focusing on institutional frameworks, funding structures, labor market integration, and responses to recent crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Using operational and financial indicators—such as participation rates across age groups, employment outcomes, investment volumes, and employer engagement— the study identifies significant differences: the EU emphasizes structural coherence, dual training systems, and public financing, while the USA model favors decentralization, flexibility, and strong private-sector involvement. The analysis reveals that VET contributes to increased productivity, higher employment rates, and reduced social inequalities, especially when aligned with digital and green skills development. Furthermore, the article highlights the need for adaptive policies that combine the EU’s focus on equity and institutional integration with the USA’s agility and innovation capacity. The conclusions suggest that transatlantic convergence could foster a resilient and inclusive global VET ecosystem, capable of responding to rapid economic and technological changes. Strategic investments, coordinated public–private partnerships, and digital infrastructure development emerge as key pillars for future-proof VET systems.