Government adopts new vocational education standard

The Government has adopted a package of decisions to implement vocational education reforms, Prime Minister of Ukraine Sergii Koretskyi announced.

"The key task is to train qualified specialists who are genuinely needed by the labor market and the country's economy," said the Head of Government.

The Government approved a new vocational education standard. At least 40% of each program is devoted to practical training. Students will be able to earn up to three professional qualifications, and vocational colleges will have greater autonomy in designing their programs. Studies will be aligned with the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS).

A new funding formula for vocational colleges will take effect in 2027. Every institution will receive base funding, while part of the funds will depend on performance.

The formula takes into account regional demand for occupations, student enrollment, graduate employment and additional funds raised by the institution. The better the results, the more funding an institution can receive.

This decision is also one of the indicators under Ukraine's cooperation with the World Bank.

Academic mobility is also being expanded. Students will be able to study and complete internships directly with employers, while teachers will be able to teach and complete internships at educational institutions and businesses.

"This will give students more practical experience and bring vocational colleges into direct cooperation with employers," Sergii Koretskyi emphasized.