Abstract:

The aim of the article is to identify the improvement of the career support system in Latvia since 2015. The research method is a case study, also using a retrospective analysis of statistical data.
In the career support system concept it was established that several elements are missing for successful functioning: a database on educational opportunities in Latvia is not available on the Internet, a tool for medium and long-term labour market forecasts, descriptions of various professions, human resources (for work at different levels). Regulatory enactments and action documents have been developed, which created a basis for the improvement of the career development support system in Latvia. The study compares data on the public reports of the State Education Development Agency. If career counsellors once used a paper catalog of job descriptions in their work, now everyone has an online database of professions, supplemented by video interviews with professionals. Statistical analysis of database visits shows that this source of information is becoming increasingly popular and is used for career decisions. It is suitable for use by both young people and their parents. Career counsellors are also trained in the use of labour market forecasting tools, and this information can be purposefully used in career counselling to help each individual become self-fulfilled in life. The digitization of career guidance solutions is in line with European human resources policy and skills development guidelines. The results of the research have been used to develop recommendations for education policy makers in Latvia.

Keywords:

Career counselling, career counsellors, improvement of the career support system.