Trusted European Data Space TESS

Digital transformation is changing education, yet data collection in the European vocational education and training (VET) sector remains fragmented and inconsistent. Current systems often lack interoperability, meaning data is siloed and difficult to share across borders. This project addresses the urgent need for a Trusted European Data Space TESS – a secure, standardized environment where educational data can be shared and analyzed to support better decision-making. 

Objectives:
1)  Develop a trusted and interoperable data space that allows VET stakeholders to share and reuse data while fully complying with EU data protection laws (GDPR/Data Act).
2) Test and prove the system’s effectiveness through pilot actions and proof-of-concept trials in real-world conditions.
3) Create a clear legal and ethical framework to manage data ownership, privacy, and sharing protocols.
4) Foster transnational cooperation and sustainable alliances between VET institutions and policymakers.
5) Equip the VET community with the digital skills and micro-credentials needed to use and benefit from the data space.

Main Activities:
1) Analyzing the current VET data ecosystem to identify specific technical and legal requirements.
2) Building the federated cloud infrastructure and interoperable middleware needed for data exchange.
3) Deploying the EVDS prototype with selected partners to test functionality, performance, and security.
4)  Delivering online workshops and “train-the-trainer” programs to ensure long-term adoption of the platform.
5)  Creating a roadmap for the project to continue and scale across Europe after the initial funding ends.

Expected Results:
1) A unified approach to collecting and sharing VET data across Europe.
2) Better alignment between vocational training and labor market needs through high-quality data analytics.
3) A validated EVDS platform ready for large-scale deployment.
4) A workforce skilled in data management, supported by recognized micro-credentials.
5) Evidence-based recommendations that help reform and modernize European education systems.

Partners:
Asociacion De Empresas Tecnologicas INNOVALIA (ES)
Software Quality Systems SA (ES)
Antalya Kepez Ilce Milli Egitim Mudurlugu (TR)
Atatürk Mesleki ve Teknik Anadolu Lisesi (TR)
Kainotomia & SIA EE (EL)
Perifereiaki Dyethinsi Protovathmias Kai Defterovathmias Ekpaidefsis Kentrikis
Makedonias (EL)
Campus Des Metiers Et Des Qualifications De L´Industrie Du Futur (FR)
TARTU LINN  (EE)
Tartu Vocational College (EE)
Hameen Ammattikorkeakoulu OY (FI)
Skills Finland (FI)
IES Felo Monzon Grau Bassas (ES)
Centro Integrado de Formación Profesional César Manrique (ES)
Consejeria De Educacion, Formacion Profesional, Actividad Fisica Y Deportes (ES)
Cauvaldor Expansion (FR)

Duration:
01.03.2026 – 28.02.2029

Project Manager:
Kaire Mets (kaire.mets@voco.ee)