Students’ practical training to become more focused on real work experience: Government approves new procedure

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a new framework for the practical training of vocational education students, reflecting the provisions of the Law of Ukraine on Vocational Education.

Practical training is a compulsory and integral part of vocational education. It should provide students not only with theoretical knowledge but also with an opportunity to gain real experience in their chosen profession directly in the workplace.

The new framework establishes how this training is to be organised at legal entities, regardless of their organisational or legal form, and at other businesses.

What will change

Students will receive all the money they earn during their placement. The provision allowing up to 50% of a student’s earnings during practical training to be transferred to their educational institution has been abolished. All earnings will now be paid directly to the student.

Student employment contracts will be introduced. Where a student performs work for a business during their placement, the business will be required to enter into a formal student employment contract with them. This will allow the student to build an official employment record and accrue social insurance contributions.

Less bureaucracy for educational institutions. Institutions will no longer require authorisation to provide practical training in their own training workshops and laboratories. Where no external agreements are needed, the institution will be able to make the relevant decision independently.

Placement outcomes will be recorded in AIKOM. Assessments, reports and practical training results will be entered into the Automated Educational Management Information System. This will provide a consistent record of students’ practical training outcomes.

Agreements with employers may run for up to five years. This will simplify long-term planning for both educational institutions and businesses providing practical training.

Practical training must be accessible to everyone. The organisational requirements now include provisions on inclusion, non-discrimination and appropriate conditions for students with disabilities, veterans and people with special educational needs.

Students should leave education ready for employment. It is therefore important that they gain real experience during their studies, work in conditions that reflect the workplace and understand how to apply their knowledge in practice.