Recognition and Certification of Skills in the Canary Islands

Overview

The Canary Islands have taken a significant step to recognize and certify skills gained through work experience and non-formal learning pathways. Following updated national regulations, the regional government now officially manages a permanent process to assess and accredit professional competencies across various sectors.

This initiative aligns with Spain’s broader goal of making it easier for citizens to have their skills validated without the need for formal education, thus boosting employability and lifelong learning.

Key Components of the Initiative

• Evaluation commissions: Include experts to assess competencies.
• Personnel compensation: Personnel involved are now entitled to financial compensation for their services, based on standardized categories.
• Procedural efficiency: The new procedures, detailed in recent government resolution, aim to streamline the accreditation system, making it more accessible and flexible for residents.

Impact and Relevance

• Facilitates formal recognition of skills acquired informally, especially for expats and workers.
• Aims to help individuals integrate more easily into the Scandinavian and local job markets.
• Emphasizes the Spanish government’s commitment to lifelong qualification and recognition.

Goals and Benefits

• Supporting workforce development.
• Promoting individual career growth.