The IES Albarregas served as the venue for the third edition of the FP Pyme Fair, organised by the Badajoz Chamber of Commerce to promote dual vocational training, strengthen collaboration between businesses and educational centres, and facilitate the integration of qualified talent into the job market.
Mérida's mayor, Antonio Rodríguez Osuna, expressed gratitude for the commitment of entrepreneurs to connect dual vocational training with the needs of the business sector. He highlighted that dual vocational training and the involvement of companies have led to a significant increase in both the number of businesses and the number of skilled individuals.
Rodríguez Osuna participated in the official inauguration of the FP Pyme Fair, which gathered around a hundred participants, including businesses, educational institutions, and professionals from the vocational training field, aiming to reinforce collaboration between the educational system and the business sector.
The institutional welcome featured contributions from Fernando Segador, vice president of the Badajoz Chamber of Commerce; Manuel Gómez, deputy for Training at the Badajoz Provincial Council; and Federico Benítez de Castro, director of IES Albarregas.
Rodríguez Osuna stressed the importance of tailoring training to meet the needs of businesses, stating, "Employers will indicate what workforce, what vocational training, and what qualifications are needed. Vocational training will be defined by employers, as that is the future of the region." He also underscored the necessity of having qualified professionals to ensure economic development, noting, "We do not have enough capacity to continue growing economically without a skilled workforce."
During his address, he warned that "when capital cannot find sufficient talent and workforce in cities, regions, and countries, it will relocate." Rodríguez Osuna focused on the current needs of the job market and the importance of ensuring that training and professional qualifications align with the real demands of businesses.
In conclusion, he thanked the business community, emphasising, "You are the ones who truly drive the economy in this country, this region, and this city."
