Addressing Jordan’s technical skills gap with Pearson’s BTEC qualifications

Founded in 1844, Pearson has grown to become one of the largest international awarding organisations, supporting tens of millions of learners every year. Pearson creates vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. Trusted by more than 160 million users worldwide, Pearson’s products and services help people realise their potential, whether it’s upskilling in the workplace, excelling in school, making the grade at university or learning a new language.

Pearson’s Business Technology and Education Council (BTEC) is a framework of vocational courses and globally renowned qualifications. BTEC qualifications provide practical, hands-on learning experiences that develop a trained and highly skilled workforce. From fundamental learning to professional courses at the postgraduate level, BTEC qualifications are recognised in more than 50 countries worldwide.

In 2023, Pearson partnered with the Jordanian Ministry of Education to address the country’s technical skills gap. Launched in May 2023, this partnership integrates BTEC qualifications into the Jordanian national curriculum, providing learners with hands-on experiences to prepare them for both employment and higher education. Developed alongside educators, employers and government bodies, BTEC qualifications align with workforce demands, ensuring that learners gain industry-relevant skills.

Over the five-year programme, the TVET curriculum will meet Jordan’s economic and workforce needs.

The project involved Pearson developing Arabic-language BTEC qualifications for Level 2 (one-year) and Level 3 (two-year) programmes in fields such as, Business, IT, Hospitality, Hair and Beauty and Agriculture. Courses began in September 2023, and by 2024/25, 36,000 learners are expected to enrol annually. Pearson is also providing comprehensive training for Jordanian vocational teachers to ensure effective delivery. Successful students will receive a globally recognised BTEC certificate, accepted by universities in the UK, US, Australia, Canada and MENAT regions.

The collaboration between Pearson and the Jordanian Ministry of Education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Jordan's youth and strengthening their contributions to the country's workforce.