Balearic vocational colleges tackle firms' challenges

Across the Balearic Islands, vocational colleges take on problems set by firms. A study presented on Friday, 23 October 2026, puts the islands among Spain’s regions with the longest track records of bringing innovation into vocational training. The CaixaBank Dualiza and Cotec foundations based their findings on a survey of 258 vocational training centres across Spain.

From teachers’ ideas to business challenges

The islands have had a specialist centre supporting innovation in vocational training for more than three years. It trains teachers in technical subjects and manages funding calls for new teaching projects and technology. At CIFP Pau Casesnoves, teachers used a collaborative meeting to help shape their college’s strategic plan.

Firms also set practical challenges for college projects. In events known as hackathons, participants work on solutions to problems businesses face. Companies work with colleges on prototypes, technical services and improvements to their production processes.

A strong record, but uneven progress

The study says innovation works best when colleges make it part of their wider plans rather than a one-off activity. Across Spain, more than €36 million went to funding calls for vocational training innovation projects in 2025. Of that, €30 million came through a call by the Spanish Ministry of Education, Vocational Training and Sports.

Progress still varies between regions, the researchers warn. Some have established strategies and support structures; others rely on scattered initiatives.

Topics: Education

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com