Vocational education leaders explore Austrian model during Vienna study tour

The Ukrainian Social Investment Fund continues to support the modernisation of vocational education in Ukraine through the implementation of the project Vocational Training in the Eastern Partnership.

As part of this effort, 19 representatives of vocational education institutions (VEI) from three EaP countries participated in a three-day study visit to Vienna on April 21-23, 2026.

The visit brought together participants from the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, Centres of Vocational Excellence, and VEIss across Ukraine, Moldova, Armenia and Austria, creating a space for open exchange, peer learning, and future collaboration.

The programme focused on practical approaches to the digitalization of vocational education and training (VET), e-learning, teacher professional development and curriculum modernization, with a particular emphasis on the construction sector.

During the visit to the Berufsschule für Baugewerbe (Vocational School for Construction) in Vienna, participants learnt about dual and trial VET models, explored how the Austrian VET system ensures skills quality, integrates digital learning tools, aligns modern curricula with labour market needs, and supports the continuous professional development for teachers.

A key highlight was the Vienna Construction Academy, an inter-company training centre supported by the Austrian Chamber of Commerce. The academy demonstrated how strong cooperation between VET schools and employers ensures high-quality practical training and close alignment with industry needs.

Participants also engaged in hands-on sessions with digital tools and discussed how these approaches can be adapted to the Ukrainian context. They learnt the approaches to digital textbooks and learning videos creating and their efficient use in the training process. Study tour participants also explored modern applications used for the digital timetable and the communication student platform.

During the visit, participants witnessed the Girls’ Day, a country-wide initiative aimed at promoting VET for and among young people, including the gender inclusion in technical and construction professions and encouraging young women to pursue careers in these fields.

Supporting the development of Centres of Professional Excellence

The study visit is part of a broader effort implemented by the Ukrainian Social Investment Fund to transform two Ukrainian vocational education institutions into Centres of Professional Excellence.

The project supports:

• Modernisation of school infrastructure in an energy-efficient way
• Provision of modern, labour market-relevant equipment
• Capacity development for teachers and school management
• Strengthening cooperation with local employers
• Creation of inclusive and accessible learning environments
• International knowledge transfer and exchange

The objective is to ensure that graduates receive high-quality, practice-oriented training that improves their employability and supports economic development.

Funding and implementation

The project Vocational Training in the Eastern Partnership is supported by KfW Development Bank on behalf of the German Government and is implemented by Ukrainian Social Investment Fund.