Strengthening Business–Education Cooperation: SPP Development Ukraine at DC dVET Regional Exchange 2026

SPP Development Ukraine took part in DC dVET Regional Exchange 2026, joining representatives of government, businesses and vocational education institutions to discuss how closer cooperation can help align professional training with labour market needs. The Ukrainian session took place in Kyiv on 22 October and focused on dual education, adult learning and ways to address the shortage of skilled workers.

The event brought together representatives of government, businesses and vocational education institutions. It was organised by the EdUP project team, implemented by Swisscontact with the support of Switzerland.

Participants discussed approaches to adult learning, ways to address the shortage of skilled workers, and mechanisms for involving employers in the educational process.

During an interactive discussion, the SPP Development Ukraine team shared its experience in organising practical training at industrial facilities, the role of workplace mentors and the conditions needed for effective cooperation with vocational education institutions.

For SPP Development Ukraine, cooperation with vocational education institutions is already delivering practical results. With the support of the EdUP team, students from one of the project’s partner vocational education institutions in Zaporizhzhia region are undertaking a six-week work placement at the company’s energy facilities for the second time. This time, they are gaining hands-on experience at a facility under construction, whereas their previous placement took place at an operational energy facility.

We value EdUP’s work in facilitating these partnerships and creating opportunities for students to apply their knowledge in real-world working environments.

For Ukraine’s energy sector, which faces a growing demand for qualified professionals, this type of cooperation helps align vocational training with industry needs and prepare future specialists to work at modern energy facilities.

We thank EdUP and Swisscontact for organising the event, facilitating professional knowledge exchange and supporting cooperation between businesses and vocational education institutions.