Future makers – Handbook on wellbeing management for educational institutions

The world of work and education are going through a period of transition, where well-being, skills and continuous learning are increasingly intertwined. Vocational education and training (VET) is a tangible expression of this change: students are expected to be flexible, ready to learn new skills and able to adapt to the rapidly changing world of work. At the same time, there is increasing pressure on educational institutions and working life actors to strengthen the well-being of young people and ensure that everyone has equal opportunities to succeed in their studies, to move into employment and to build a meaningful future.

But change is not just a challenge – it is also an opportunity to reform the structures and practices that guide learning and working life. Rapidly changing labour markets, technological developments and societal phenomena such as ageing populations and increasing mental health challenges require a new common approach in VET institutions. Youth well-being is no longer just a task for education or student support services, but part of a broad network, from the workplace to public policy and legislation.

In this publication, we bring together development work, research and practical examples that address these challenges. We cover strategic well-being management, strengthening student inclusion, developing work-life skills and promoting continuous learning. We will also explore the potential of knowledge management, collaborative approaches and regional cooperation to create structures that support sustainable growth for both individuals and organisations. At the same time, we will highlight how legislation, research and local experimentation form a complementary whole, providing tools for practitioners and policy-makers more widely.