During a recent official visit to Ecuador, The FuturED Institute held a meeting with CAF, the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, one of the region’s leading multilateral institutions supporting sustainable development, education, innovation, infrastructure, and institutional strengthening.

The meeting was held with Emilia Vallejo, Education Specialist at CAF, and provided an opportunity to discuss key trends, challenges, and opportunities affecting education and workforce development across Latin America and the Caribbean. Particular attention was given to the importance of strengthening links between education systems and labour market needs through innovative approaches to skills development.

Among the topics discussed was dual education, which combines academic learning with practical workplace experience. The conversation explored the role that public-private collaboration can play in promoting greater awareness of this model and supporting its implementation across different national contexts.

The meeting also highlighted the value of dialogue between development institutions, educational organisations, employers, and business associations in advancing solutions that contribute to employability, competitiveness, and sustainable economic growth throughout the region.

The exchange provided a valuable opportunity to share perspectives on the future of education and skills development in Latin America and the Caribbean, reinforcing the importance of cooperation in addressing common challenges and opportunities.