The EdUP Project, in partnership with the Confederation of Builders of Ukraine (CBU) and with the support of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (MoES), held a round table dedicated to discussing two important documents for the vocational education system — the Procedure for Practical Training and the Model Student Employment Contract.
The focus was on the quality of practical training for learners and on regulating their interaction with employers during internships.
“The Project’s participation in organizing a public discussion of regulatory documents on practical training is a strategic step toward achieving our main goal: a satisfied graduate with relevant skills who confidently enters the labour market, has real employment opportunities, and receives decent pay.”
During the discussion, MoES representatives emphasized the importance of open dialogue with all stakeholders involved in the vocational education system.
“We want the mechanisms of practical training to reflect the real conditions in which businesses operate and for this to be properly embedded in the documents. It is important to consider the interests of all stakeholders — educational institutions, employers, and learners themselves. Practical training is a key component of this education system. We aim to hear from as many interested parties as possible before the document is adopted.”
The Model Student Employment Contract presented by experts of the Reform Support Team at MES will be available for use by companies and businesses after its approval.
“The new Law introduces a student employment contract, which will now be concluded directly between the student and the employer. Students will receive payment for their practical training directly, rather than through the educational institution.”
The expert clarified that this is a model student employment contract rather than a standard mandatory template. According to her, the parties may adapt its provisions to specific conditions and circumstances of each individual agreement by mutual consent.
Business representatives participating in the round table stressed that the proposed changes create a clearer and more partnership-based model of cooperation between education and business, which will better align skills training with real labour market needs.
“The Confederation of Builders of Ukraine is directly interested in the development of vocational education. The government has set the task of rebuilding the country, while the sector is already experiencing a shortage of skilled workers. That is why we pay special attention to vocational education and the training of future construction professionals. Strengthening cooperation between employers and vocational institutions is critically important to overcoming the skills shortage.”
