By Doris Leuthard, Head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs (FDEA)

You are responsible for labour, professional education, technology and innovation could you describe your role ?
For me, labour, vocational education and the development of technology and innovation are the essential building blocks of Switzerland’s economic success. It is in these areas that I set priorities. We can only raise prosperity, employment and standards of living if we are able to compete on all levels of the global market. My areas of responsibility range from broad economic affairs and education to agriculture, housing and issues surrounding fair competition. One of my main policy goals in the FDEA is to create a favourable environment for generating employment through flexible labour market conditions, and to facilitate access to the labour market for young people, women, and older workers. The Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) are celebrating their 10th anniversary: seven public schools, almost 50,000 students, 13 BA degree programs, and four Master degree programs.

How do you feel about this last decade ?
We have achieved a great deal. The Universities of Applied Sciences have managed to organize themselves, evolve, and cope with the increase in student numbers and have become equal partners to the universities and the Federal Institutes of Technology (ETH). Their particular plus is the bearing they have towards practical application and the needs of the economy. In addition, the university landscape has become more diverse : a private University of Applied Science has also now been acknowledged as a recognized university.

Apprenticeships, the professional baccalaureate and the UAS are often quoted as examples on the international scene, could you explain the reasons for their success?
Vocational education and training, which incorporates apprenticeships, is the most popular educational route that many young Swiss take. Two thirds begin their vocational education and training after completing their compulsory schooling. This training guarantees practical experience as well as offering real career opportunities. The wide range of offerings is continuously being refined and adapted to new developments.

Furthermore, the path ranges from vocational qualifications to UAS degrees, and soon also to Master’s level. It is also worth mentioning the path of higher vocational education and training which can lead to further qualifications even for those without a professional baccalaureate. The success of our system can be put down to the fact that it is supported and financed by all of the partners involved (the federal government, the cantons and the private sector). That way we have people with the right skills and qualifications for every job. The Universities of Applied Sciences and the 12 traditional universities are not under the same minister.

Could you explain to readers why this is?
In Switzerland, responsibility for education is divided between different levels of government. The cantons are responsible for general schooling (primary and secondary) and for the 12 traditional universities. Responsibility for the various levels of vocational education and training falls to the Federal Department of Economic Affairs because of its bearing on the labour market. The two Federal Institutes of Technology are covered by the Federal Department of Home Affairs due to research. On the whole the system that has evolved over a number of years still functions well.

What role do you feel Switzerland should play in the education and training sector, which is in the process of becoming more and more international?
It encourages us to excel in science and education and offer an attractive location for the best researchers. We currently invest around 2.96% of our GDP in education and research. In order to maintain our leading position we have topped up the credit for education, research and innovation by a further 6% over the next four years. Over the next few years we also want to reform the Swiss university system so as to coordinate it more efficiently, while granting the universities greater autonomy. That should make us more competitive internationally.

What do you think of ECAL (University of Art and Design Lausanne) being among the world’s Top Ten D-Schools ? Is this your goal for each UAS?
We are proud of leaders like ECAL. They contribute to Switzerland’s reputation as an innovative and creative nation. Being internationally oriented is an important criterion, especially in art and design. On the other hand, the need for a university to have solid local roots should also not be underestimated. Ideally, it should foster constant dialogue with regional partners.

What role do private schools play in the economic development of a region, and how important are they in a multinational company’s decision to set up a base in Switzerland?
Private schools have a long tradition in Switzerland and should not be underestimated as an economic factor. These schools have an impact on the image of Switzerland abroad and on its appeal as a business location. We strive to ensure that such schools have a good framework within which to operate and maintain their high level of quality.

How would you convince a foreign student to choose Switzerland over another country?
The opportunity to get to know Switzerland with its four language regions and high standard of living is a special experience for any foreign student. Switzerland is a safe and politically stable country. Furthermore, our Universities of Applied Sciences and traditional universities enjoy an excellent reputation. A Swiss diploma or study visit opens many doors to the business world.