Ukraine will change the sphere of vocational education: details of the new bill

The new draft law on vocational education in Ukraine provides for significant changes. It includes reorganization of institutions, updating qualifications, and more. Find out the details of the reform and its potential impact on the education system
Recently, a new draft law on vocational education was submitted to the Parliament, which should establish a new legal framework for the functioning of the entire vocational education system. The document envisages a significant transformation of the vocational education sector, changing the names of educational institutions and qualifications, improving funding and expanding the autonomy of educational institutions.
Key changes in vocational education
The draft law provides for a change in the classification system of vocational education institutions. Out of the 17 existing types of vocational education institutions, including vocational schools, one main type will remain - “vocational college”. In addition, several other specific types of institutions will be defined to meet educational needs.
The terminology for qualifications is also changing. Instead of “skilled worker” and the corresponding diploma, the term “professional specialist” will now be used, and graduates will receive a diploma of “professional specialist” in vocational education.
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New opportunities for students
Vocational education students will no longer be called pupils - they will become students. This also means expanding their rights and opportunities. In particular, they will have the opportunity to obtain professional qualifications even without a basic secondary education. This will greatly expand access to vocational education and encourage more people to acquire professional skills.
In addition, the law provides for the right to receive free vocational education in another profession, but with certain conditions. Repeated training is possible only three years after completion of the first free course and subject to at least two years of insurance experience.
Financing and autonomy of educational institutions
The draft law also contains provisions for the creation of a new system of financing vocational education institutions. The details of this system have not yet been disclosed, but it is expected that funding will become more flexible and efficient.
Another important aspect of the reform is to strengthen the autonomy of vocational colleges. They will have more opportunities to manage the educational process independently. In particular, such institutions will be able to:
• Independently establish rules for admission of students;
• Develop their own educational and training programs, as well as non-formal education programs;
• Determine the use of earned funds.
Vocational education in a new way: what does the new draft law provide for?
The authors of the draft law emphasize that the proposed changes should solve a number of problems in the field of vocational education, in particular
• Simplify the system of educational institutions, making it more understandable and accessible;
• Ensure modern approaches to education that meet the needs of the labor market;
• Expand opportunities for students to acquire new professions and improve their skills;
• Increase the autonomy of institutions, allowing them to respond more quickly to changes in the economy and labor market.
If passed, the draft law will ensure the further development of the vocational education system in Ukraine in line with modern requirements and the needs of all stakeholders. The introduction of the new rules will improve the quality of training and make vocational education more competitive.
We remind you! Starting in 2027, Ukrainian schoolchildren will be studying under a new reform that includes a number of innovations. We told you what changes the government is preparing for school education.
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