Mykolaiv, 31 July 2026 — The Government of Denmark and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine have supported a series of short-term vocational courses to help adults reskill and access new employment opportunities. The training was delivered in partnership with 11 vocational institutions across Mykolaiv Oblast: five in Mykolaiv and others in Ielanets, Kazanka, Nova Odesa, Pivdennoukrainsk, Snihurivka and Voznesensk.

Human capital development is one of the key pillars of UNDP’s Area-Based Recovery approach. By investing in vocational education and reskilling, UNDP is supporting communities to address shortages of qualified workers. Designed in response to local labour market needs, these vocational courses provide rapid training in professions that are in high demand across specific communities.

The training focused on nine vocational professions identified by local employers as priorities: electric welder, computer maintenance and repair operator, cook, baker, pastry cook, tractor driver, waiter, wheeled vehicle repair mechanic and plasterer. By offering targeted training in these fields, the courses equipped participants with skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace and support the economic recovery of their communities.

To ensure high-quality practical training, UNDP, with support from the Government of Denmark, provided vocational institutions with workwear, consumables and instructor remuneration. The demand-driven approach has already produced positive outcomes: nearly 60 percent of more than 170 graduates have found jobs or started their own businesses.

Jakob Torrild Hansen, Head of the Danish Embassy Office in Mykolaiv, highlighted the importance of investing in human capital as a foundation for recovery. “Recovery is not only about rebuilding infrastructure. It is also about creating opportunities for people to develop new skills, find decent work and contribute to the future of their communities,” he said. “We are pleased to support this vocational training programme, which is strengthening employment prospects for participants while helping communities build a more resilient and inclusive local economy.”

Auke Lootsma, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, highlighted skills development as a foundation for sustainable recovery. “Communities recover faster and stronger when investments in people, institutions and economic opportunities go hand in hand,” he said. “Through partnerships with vocational schools, local authorities and employers, we are building the skilled workforce needed to drive local growth and create lasting opportunities.”

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications and Advocacy; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org