A closer look at the economics of training in Israel: Involving employers through youth apprenticeship and sectoral training levies

Successful vocational education and training (VET) systems require strong employer involvement. This chapter explores how to make VET in Israel more attractive to employers. In Israel few employers are able to realise long-term benefits associated with recruitment of the most able apprentices, since many young apprentices enter the military service after the end of the programme. The chapter argues that a well-designed apprenticeship can be beneficial to employers even in the short term. To this end, Israel may support employers with providing high-quality training in workplaces. This includes measures such as helping employers with administrative tasks, training of apprentice instructors, and providing additional support to employers offering apprenticeships to disadvantaged youth. The chapter also discusses how to address some key skills shortages. Sectoral training levies initiated by social partners are one option.