Since January 2013, the OECD has been working closely with Norway to successfully use inclusive and innovative processes to strengthen Norway’s skills system. The process was conducted in two phases. The diagnostic phase, completed over the course of 2013, served to build a shared understanding of the issues at stake and to identify twelve skills challenges for Norway. In the action phase, as described in this report, stakeholders generated innovative approaches and solutions to specific skills challenges in an effort to contribute to the development and implementation of government skills policies. Stakeholders chose to focus on three interlinked Priority Areas for action, which incorporate the twelve skills challenges identified in the Diagnostic Report: improving the effectiveness of Norway’s skills system, tackling skills imbalances, and strengthening education and training for low skilled adults. The five key actions identified to address Norway’s skills challenges constitute a strong and coherent platform for new policy development and better implementation of existing skills policies.

This Action Report would have served its purpose if it contributes to fostering a common understanding of the actions Norway needs to take to strengthen its skills system. It would have accomplished an even greater goal if it stimulates policy makers and stakeholders to work together to ensure successful implementation. Maximising Norway’s skills potential is everyone’s business, and will require a shared commitment across ministries, county and local governments as well as social partners to deliver better skills outcomes today and in the future.