NEWS

With support from the European Union and the European Investment Bank (EIB), Ukraine is moving ahead with a large-scale modernisation of its vocational schools to create Centres of Excellence – modern, energy-efficient learning hubs equipped for the professions of the future.

The €58 million initiative, implemented by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (MoES) with technical assistance from several consulting companies including PEM Consult under the leadership of Delta Managing & Consulting Engineers GmbH, will upgrade schools in Dnipro, Kalush, Kyiv, Odesa, Chortkiv, Kolky, and Uzhhorod. These Centres of Excellence will provide high-quality training aligned with the needs of local and national labour markets, helping young people and adult learners gain the skills needed in a changing economy.

Following the successful completion of the project’s first phase in 2024, which developed concept designs and investment priorities, the current phase focuses on detailed design, procurement, and implementation. Over the coming years, the schools will undergo reconstruction and be equipped with modern facilities that meet international quality and environmental standards.

During the Inception Phase this summer, the project team met with local authorities, school representatives, and the MoES to plan the next steps. Workshops and site visits showed strong enthusiasm among the schools but also highlighted the need for additional technical and administrative support. To address this, the project will deliver training and capacity-building programmes for school and regional staff to strengthen their ability to manage and implement the works.

Sustainability is a key focus of the project. All Centres of Excellence will apply green building standards and aim for EDGE certification, ensuring energy and water efficiency and healthier learning environments.

“This project is about much more than new buildings – it’s about giving Ukraine’s youth the tools to build their future,” said Yuliya Kupriyenko, Team Leader of the Technical Assistance team. “By combining modern design, sustainability, and strong local ownership, we are creating spaces where students can thrive and innovation can flourish.”

Design work will continue through 2026, followed by construction and equipment delivery. By 2029, all Centres of Excellence are expected to be fully operational – a milestone in building a stronger, more future-ready Ukraine.