Lifelong Learning and Skill Development among VET Graduates: Evidence from PIAAC Cycle 2

Major developments such as the AI and the green transition are shifting global skill demands. VET graduates may be particularly vulnerable to these changes, given their specific training as compared to more broadly trained non-VET graduates. Lifelong learning (LLL) activities can help prevent skill deficits. This paper examines differences between VET and non-VET graduates in LLL participation and skills, using PIAAC Cycle 2 data from 24 OECD countries. When comparing graduates from the same educational level, differences in LLL participation are generally larger between OECD countries than between VET and non-VET graduates within countries. Multilevel regression analyses show that VET graduates score lower in numeracy and adaptive problem solving compared to non-VET graduates. Training participation is positively associated with skills across all age groups, although effects are smaller for older adults. LLL participation is associated with a higher likelihood of feeling underskilled. No differences between VET and non-VET graduates were found in the association between LLL and skills or feeling underskilled. The association between training and skills was weaker for individuals with VET in their educational pathway.