Tàndem Programme's 10th Edition Won by Gamified Ski Slope Innovation

The Tàndem programme's tenth edition concluded with the 'Grand Group' team winning top prize for its innovative gamified route on a Granvalira beginner ski slope, designed to improve first snow sports experiences for 15- to 25-year-olds. The proposal featured a calm skiing path with selfie points tied to Instagram hashtags for sharing and contests, community events like live music from local artists or open-air cinema, and targeted social media promotion using influencers.

Organised by the Aixovall Vocational Training Centre with support from Andorra Business and the Andorran government, the initiative involved 71 vocational students and nine teachers addressing real challenges from three partners. SOADCO sought welcome protocols and materials for new employee integration; Giansi 6 responded with an internal social network app mimicking X for posts, chats and likes, plus a physical lounge for games, TV and monthly free meals. Universitat Carlemany aimed to foster belonging in online learning; Caland proposed a 'Match Estudiants' virtual campus feature pairing students by interests and schedules, alongside a social wall for sharing and support. SETAP 365's challenge went to 'Grand Group'. Six finalist teams presented at the event.

Over ten editions, Tàndem has engaged 673 students, 115 teachers and 30 companies, while launching five new training streams to promote applied innovation and labour market links.

Economy, Employment and Housing Minister Conxita Marsol, who chairs Andorra Business, called the programme fully established, proving Andorran youth talent needs opportunities. She linked it to the National Plan for Innovation and Economic Diversification from late last year, noting its decade-long role in bringing innovation to businesses and young people. When education, business and institutions align, she said, projects succeed, grow and last.

Institutional Relations, Education and Universities Minister Ladislau Baró gave a very positive assessment, praising its comprehensive pedagogy that turns students into business advisors, building creativity, rigour and responsibility in real settings. He noted efforts to expand entrepreneurial culture through a planned network of entrepreneurial and innovative schools, though Tàndem's extension to other systems remains challenging due to varying vocational training maturity levels.

Baró said the Vocational Training Observatory could launch in coming months via a nearing deal with Andorra Recerca Innovació (AR+I). Separate from the developing School of Trades, both are priorities for Education, Economy ministries and the Chamber of Commerce. They would track training trends like flexible micro-credentials and short courses to match a changing job market, a need highlighted by the Chamber.

The government and Andorra Business pledged continued backing for Tàndem as key to vocational training and innovation. Attendees included State Secretaries Marc Saura for Business, Economic Diversification and Innovation, and Joan Anton Bardina for Education and Universities, plus Andorra Business director Judit Hidalgo.