However, it still represents a small fraction of total enrolments, below the OECD average, despite evidence that returns are high and labour market outcomes are positive (OECD, 2012). The Pronatec programme launched in 2011 aims to expand and strengthen the federal network of technical schools, invest in distance learning courses, provide free training places for young people from poor backgrounds and give financial support through loans and bursaries. Overcoming liquidity constraints through bursaries is an important pillar of this strategy, as financial reasons are a common explanation for not attending or finishing professional qualification and vocational courses (Ministry of Education, 2009, Neti, 2012).