Transforming the health workforce through education and lifelong learning: an intersectoral approach

The achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) depends to a significant extent upon education and training. This presentation draws upon work done by UNESCO that makes the case for increased attention to... [ view full abstract ]

The achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) depends to a significant extent upon education and training. This presentation draws upon work done by UNESCO that makes the case for increased attention to education and lifelong learning (SDG4) for the achievement of universal health coverage (SDG3).  

The conventional model of health workforce education, premised upon a narrowing formal schooling pipeline, oriented towards pre-service education and training, and founded on a biomedical approach, will be unable to meet the needs of the future health workforce. Technical and vocational education and training  (TVET) could help establish diverse learning pathways with multiple entry and exit points, thereby supporting learning and career progression. An intersectoral approach towards SDG3 and SDG4 could thus help unleash the potential of TVET and lifelong learning systems for health workforce employment, economic growth and social equity, supporting the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as a whole.