UGDYMO KARJERAI ĮGYVENDINIMAS GIMNAZIJOJE: LŪKESČIAI IR PROBLEMOS [IMPLEMENTATION OF CAREER EDUCATION IN GYMNASIUM: EXPECTATIONS AND PROBLEMS]

The National Programme for the Development of Studies, Scientific Research and Experimental (Social and Cultural) Development for 2013–2022 claims that the society has become active, unanimous and lifelong learning, what is more, each person is open to changes, responsible and creative. The laws highlight that an educational institution has to ensure that every student attending it knows where, when and how to get the service of career education and vocational counselling. The research aimed at revealing functions of education specialists working in five biggest municipalities in Marijampole county, as well as guiding the implementation of career education in gymnasiums within Marijampole region. In order to find education specialists‘ opinion, a structured interview was carried out. The research data revealed that the service of career education is available in educational institutions. However, according to the position of the respondents, the service is not adequate to satisfy students` needs. The service of career education is not consistent, furthermore, career education specialists do not have an opportunity to achieve high quality in service provision since it lacks adequate financial support. Keywords: career education, specialist executive for career education, vocational counselling, vocational information.