From renovation to new technologies: how EU4Skills is transforming vocational education in the Lviv region

On 30 October, the official opening of the renovated Stryi Higher Vocational School No. 34 took place within the framework of the project “EU4Skills: Modernization of the Infrastructure of the Vocational Education and Training System in Ukraine.” The Project is financed by the European Union, implemented by the German Development Bank KfW in cooperation with the USIF and the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine as the beneficiary.

The institution underwent major renovation and received modern professional equipment. The total investment from the EU exceeded €1.5 million.

“By supporting modern learning environments that meet EU standards, we help Ukrainian students gain the skills and hands-on experience they need to succeed in today’s labour market,” — said Henrik Huitfeldt, Head of Section for Public Finance, Business Support, and Social Policies at the EU Delegation to Ukraine.

Within the framework of the EU4Skills project, more than €1 million was allocated for capital renovation of workshops and classrooms for the professions of “Electric Gas Welder” and “Car Repair Mechanic.” The premises underwent comprehensive thermal modernization, installation of heating and water supply systems, electrical wiring, ventilation, and new floors, windows, and doors, as well as landscaping of the adjacent area.

In addition, the project delivered equipment — such as furniture, welding and auto repair machinery, educational laboratory stands for automotive studies, STEM equipment, and additional computer sets for training workshops — worth over €557 thousand.

“The modernization of vocational education makes it possible to train competitive professionals for the labour market. The renovated welding workshop is a vivid example of this. In addition to traditional methods, students here will be able to work with laser and plasma technologies already used in modern industry,” said Dmytro Zavhorodnii, Deputy Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine for Digital Development, Digital Transformations and Digitalization.

“We are not just renovating buildings — we are creating an environment where young people in the Lviv region can obtain quality education and find themselves in modern professions. The support of our international partners, particularly the European Union, is crucial for driving change in Ukraine’s vocational education sector,”— said Maksym Kozytskyi, Head of the Lviv Regional State Administration.

Background information: 

The EU-funded "EU4Skills: Modernisation of Vocational Education and Training Infrastructure in Ukraine" project is part of the "EU4Skills: Better Skills for Modern Ukraine" programme (Component 3) and aims to update and modernise the equipment and infrastructure of VET schools in Ukraine. The project aims to create a modern VET infrastructure, that contributes to increased attractiveness for students. The project works on laying the foundation for effective, demand-driven education that equips students with skills that the Ukrainian labour market seeks. On behalf of the European Union and the German Development Bank KfW, the project is implemented by the Ukrainian Social Investment Fund.

For additional information, please contact Inna Pavliuk via inna.pavljuk@brandcom.com.ua