The popularity of Individual Vocational Training (IBO) continues to decline, according to figures released by the Minister of Employment Zuhal Demir (N-VA) in response to a query from Ilse Malfroot (Vlaams Belang).
Individual Vocational Training (IBO) offers job seekers on-the-job training and guidance from employers. During the training, participants retain their unemployment benefits and receive an additional allowance from VDAB, while employers save on wage costs since they do not have to pay salaries or social security contributions.
Despite its potential as a "win-win situation" for both employers and trainees, with employers filling vacancies at a lower cost and trainees gaining valuable job experience, the number of IBOs initiated each year is decreasing.
In 2022, there were 2,123 IBO programmes; in 2023, 1,858; in 2024, 1,653; and by May 2025, only 630 had started. Of these, some programmes were discontinued. Last year, only 51.2% of participants secured employment afterwards.
Vlaams Belang points out that vacancies reported directly to VDAB are also declining. “Employers are not getting the right candidates, and VDAB is doing little with the feedback,” states Malfroot. “This lack of effective response undermines trust in the system. More than half of IBO programmes do not lead to sustainable employment.”
