The EdUP project presented the National Study on the Professional and Practical Training of Construction Profession Students during the Business Day as part of the expanded meeting of the Board of Directors of the Confederation of Builders of Ukraine.
This study was conducted by the Swiss Foundation for Technical Cooperation, Swisscontact, with the support of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, the Ukrainian Marketing Association NGO, and the League of Masters NGO. The study aimed to examine the current state of professional and practical training of students in vocational education institutions in the construction sector and assess the prospects for cooperation between these institutions and employers.
The study’s methodology included both quantitative and qualitative methods. It involved 90 in-depth interviews with representatives of 28 vocational education institutions from 21 regions of Ukraine and the city of Kyiv. Additionally, a national survey was conducted, covering 2,392 students, 1,127 teaching staff, and 484 construction industry enterprises. This provided a comprehensive picture of the current state of practical training in the construction field.
Key findings of the study:
Organization of the learning process during the war: Most training is conducted remotely, and students often independently seek places for practical work, which complicates professional training.
Forms of practical training: 60% of students work in basic positions, and 40% work under the supervision of mentors. However, every fifth student works outside their specialty, which affects the quality of training.
Satisfaction with practical training: 85% of students are satisfied with their practical training, mainly due to mentors who help them adapt to real working conditions.
Challenges for enterprises: Companies face difficulties with providing additional training, supplying workwear and tools, and are often reluctant to hire minors due to harsh working conditions.
Soft skills: Communication skills, creativity, and the ability to learn are key to the successful adaptation of students in enterprises.
Material and technical resources: Institutions participating in the EdUP project have better material and technical resources. 60% of trainers noted the availability of modern equipment, and 40% confirmed the presence of specially equipped laboratories for inclusive education.
This study highlights the importance of active cooperation between vocational education institutions and employers to improve the professional training of students, as well as the need to update the material and technical base of institutions and provide support to enterprises from the state.
