For some years now, Ecuador has been strengthening its economic reality. Exporting finished products rather than unprocessed natural resources ensures the added value remains in Ecuador. To achieve this, Ecuador needs technically trained people with entrepreneurial spirit.
VVOB works closely with the Ministry of Education in Ecuador to embed entrepreneurship into technical education. The main focus is on teacher training.
We interview Vanessa Calvas, Head of Department of Professional Development and Natasha Montalvo, National Director in the same Department for In-service Training and Continuing Professional Development.
Technical secondary education and entrepreneurship
Natasha Montalvo confirms the Ministry of Education is introducing major changes to the educational system. One of those changes is in strengthening technical education. "Within technical education, entrepreneurship is a fundamental theme. After all, it is necessary to increase self-confidence of graduates to undertake business initiatives. This way, the local demand for products can be met within the country", she says. "Therefore, the technical schools need to be hands-on learning centres where students can learn to produce and trade, starting from real and practical experiences."
Training of teachers is essential
VVOB developed the curriculum for a course on entrepreneurship for teachers. In 2014, 470 teachers participated in this course at three universities. "With this training, we want to give teachers the tools to allow them to act as a coach to their students in entrepreneurship and production", says Vanessa Calvas, Head of Department of Professional Development. "This way, good education to prepare students for professional life and strengthening our economy go hand in hand."
In 2015, 765 teachers of technical education will follow this course. Natasha Montalvo appreciates the role of VVOB in all of this. "Their contribution is fundamental for the teacher training", she states. "This applies not only to the development of the courses. VVOB currently also looks into the quality of the course for entrepreneurship provided by the three universities. With this instrument, we will be able to assess other courses as well and increase their quality."
Of course technical education does not only prepare for the labour market. That is why VVOB also aims to improve education in competencies related to life skills - the “good life”- the main theme in this government’s policy. This concept refers to the pursuit of quality of life. It entails a life of dignity, in harmony with nature, with a diversity of cultures. It requires care for oneself and others.
