The Vice-Ministry of Vocational Training of the Canarian Government met last Thursday with the unions ANPE and STEC to detail innovations in Vocational Training for the 2026-27 academic year. Among the main novelties, it was confirmed that Integrated Vocational Training Centers (CIFP) will offer both the existing dual degree model and a new modality that allows obtaining two qualifications in three years.
The union organizations have positively assessed the coexistence of both systems. The traditional model, known as 2+1, allows students to obtain one qualification in two years and, in a third year, validate subjects to achieve a second qualification. On the other hand, the new model requires completing three years of training to obtain both qualifications.
“"The intention now is not to cut the current offer, but to maintain it."
Haridian Moreno, spokesperson for STEC, highlighted the "rectification" by the Vice-Ministry, as it was initially foreseen that CIFP s would only offer the new model. ANPE emphasized the importance of not eliminating training cycles, neither those in high demand nor those with fewer students, especially those taught in non-capital islands or specific areas of Gran Canaria and Tenerife.
Both unions stressed that the new model includes an intensive dual modality during the first two years, meaning students will spend most of their time in companies. The objective is to facilitate and accelerate labor market integration. However, Moreno expressed reservations about the capacity of the Canarian business fabric to absorb these students in intensive training.
Furthermore, instructions for the organization and operation of Vocational Training for the next academic year are being negotiated. The Vice-Ministry announced greater support for management teams, with the creation of Vocational Training department heads in institutes with more than ten groups and deputy figures for study and management in CIFP s, depending on the number of groups.
Despite these advancements, unions have requested an increase in teaching hours, especially for tutoring. The STEC spokesperson regretted that the vice-minister did not consider it necessary to include an hour of tutorial action in Vocational Training. ANPE also demanded more time for company relations, first-quarter coordination, and department heads.
Finally, ANPE denounced that a digital information tool about Vocational Training offerings in the Canary Islands, funded with public money, also promotes private offerings, which they consider direct competition for public training. This platform unifies inquiries for teachers, students, and companies, and serves as a tool for orientation and promotion of cycles.
