LocationsArtificial intelligence and automation are redefining the global labor market, creating new demands for skilled workers. The challenge of preparing its workforce for this new reality was the central theme of the recent III International Conference on "Vocational Education in the Face of Global Challenges", that took place in the beginning of October in Minsk, Belarus.
How vocational education is changing with AI, innovations and future skills
October 8, 2025
Photo: UNDP in Belarus.
According to the UNDP Human Development Report 2025, the world is undergoing a technological transformation. While 60% of people believe AI will benefit labor markets, one in eight fears losing their job to automation. Yet, forecasts from the World Economic Forum suggest not a replacement of humans by machines, but a new era of collaboration between them.
Ensuring the labor market has specialists who can adapt to changing realities is a crucial task for the education system. According to UNDP research, 80% of emerging occupations now demand digital skills, even in traditional sectors, such as farming and construction.
"We see the need not only to identify the problem, but also to formulate specific recommendations and practical mechanisms that will allow us to promptly implement innovations in the educational system," said Alexander Bakhanovich, First Deputy Minister of Education of the Republic of Belarus, in his speech at the conference.
The goal is to integrate innovations into the country’s educational framework.
III International Conference on "Vocational Education in the Face of Global Challenges" took place in the beginning of October in Minsk, Belarus.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus.
Innovations and AI tools for educators
A key to this strategy is the professional development of educators themselves. With UNDP support, the country has developed 24 new training programmes focusing on digital competencies. Over 1,500 teachers and vocational instructors have already completed these courses, mastering the use of digital tools in fields from construction to agriculture.
The integration of artificial intelligence is also being systematized. Educators are already training at the country's High Technology Park, and a pilot project is underway to develop methodological guidelines for weaving AI into official educational curriculums.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus.
Bridging education and industry
By the time educational institutions acquire new equipment and develop curricula, industry has often moved on to the next generation of technology. To bridge the gap between the classroom and the factory floor, Belarus is developing its network of "competence centers." Now numbering 53 across the country, these centers, often located directly within enterprises, allow students to master cutting-edge equipment before entering the workforce. UNDP has helped modernize six specialized laboratories across four pilot centers, introducing technologies like digital metrology and geographic information systems.
"We clearly understand what specialists the economy will require in 3-4 years, and we are building training programs to meet this demand," explains Alexandra Petrova of the Ministry of Education. "The main guarantee for our graduate is their first job, and this system is already working."
The solution involves creating both national and international networks of competence centers. The national network aims to build a unified educational ecosystem encouraging innovation and knowledge-sharing among colleges, businesses and research institutions. The international one provides access to best global practices and tested solutions from joint projects elsewhere.
Valery Golubovsky, Rector of the Republican Institute of Vocational Education, notes that this dual approach – consolidating internal resources while accessing global practices – is what "directly contributes to the formation of future skills for high-tech sectors."
Photo: UNDP in Belarus.
Growing demand for vocational education
Interest in vocational education is increasing – largely due to the digital transformation of industries and the introduction of innovations in learning. Enrolment in Belarusian colleges rose to 66,800 students in 2025 – an increase of 2,300 from 2023.
Vocational education in Belarus demonstrates the ability to adapt to the challenges of the digital age. By upskilling teachers, modernizing equipment, embracing AI tools, and sharing the experience, the system is preparing a new generation of specialists for the jobs of tomorrow.
The event was supported by the project "Developing Youth Innovation Potential for Accelerated Sustainable Development", implemented by UNDP in Belarus in partnership with the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Belarus and the educational institution "Republican Institute of Vocational Education" (RIPO) with financial support from the Russian Federation.
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