Introduction
The project aims to strengthen the cultural tourism sector in Mediterranean partner countries by addressing the skills gap in vocational education and training (VET). Recognizing the need to diversify beyond the traditional “sea and sun” model, it focuses on developing a joint qualification in cultural tourism through the collaboration of four VET organizations, with a strong emphasis on work-based learning that includes a compulsory three-month apprenticeship. Based on an adapted “Skills Passport” defined by enterprises, the project will create a joint qualification profile, curriculum, assessment standards, and quality assurance mechanisms to ensure a fully recognized qualification. Piloted during the 2019–2020 academic year with the participation of 80 VET students and 80 SMEs, the initiative seeks to equip young people with the necessary skills to boost their employability while enabling enterprises to access a pool of qualified professionals, ultimately enhancing the cultural tourism offer and increasing business engagement in apprenticeships.