advertentieDemographic decline puts mbo and labor market under pressure
In several regions such as Achterhoek, Friesland, and South Limburg, the number of mbo students is expected to decline by 20 to 30% by 2040 compared to 2020. Nationally, the decrease is about 14%. As a result, it is becoming increasingly difficult for mbo schools to keep programs open. If nothing is done, crucial offerings for the region, such as programs for healthcare, safety, and climate transition, will disappear in some areas. Students will have less choice, longer travel times, and unequal opportunities. For sectors like technology, it will be even harder to train more talent.
Current model not sustainable
Funding is the money that schools receive from the government to provide education — for example, for teachers, teaching materials, and buildings. Currently, that amount automatically decreases as the number of students decreases. The current funding method encourages competition rather than collaboration between schools. This can hinder agreements that lead to a well-organized offering of programs for the regional labor market and social challenges. Think, for example, of the energy transition.
Involvement of mbo sector and independent experts in the new funding
In developing the new funding model, the expertise of the mbo sector and independent specialists is utilized. To understand what aligns well with practice and needs in the field, discussions have been held with representatives of mbo institutions, students, teachers, businesses, municipalities, and implementation. Additionally, the minister has asked PwC to conduct an inventory of the options.
New funding methods proposed
The minister proposes 3 possible new funding methods:
- focused on simplification with customization for shrinking regions;
- accessibility and collaboration;
- labor market relevance and performance.
The 3 packages have been developed based on advice from the Committee on the revision of mbo funding. The committee is led by Kees Vendrik.
Preferred option around the turn of the year
The ministry will work with PwC in the coming period to analyze and calculate the 3 packages and will continue discussions with the mbo sector. Based on these discussions and in-depth analyses, the minister will present his preferred option around the turn of the year. The preferred option may consist of a combination of elements from the 3 packages. This will lay the foundation for new legislation aimed at a future-proof and accessible mbo offering throughout the Netherlands.