By 2040, Ukraine’s population will decrease by approximately 7.5 million people, which will significantly affect labour force availability — a decline of 20% is projected. This is stated in a study by the Boston Consulting Group. To prepare a new generation of professionals for the production of light-transmitting structures, UVSK has launched the WindowED project. Its mission is to create a sustainable system of vocational education for the industry.
WindowED includes:
- Development of professional standards in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, employers, and educators;
- Establishment of training and practical centres;
- Enrolment of students and organisation of hands-on training;
- Certification of qualifications at the new centres;
- International cooperation with partners, including Swisscontact and GIZ.
Initial steps have already been taken. On 27 February 2025, the first professional standard — for façade system installers — was approved. A working group of 27 specialists is currently developing another standard for window and door structure installers. The application has been submitted, and the development is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Work is ongoing to establish the first training and practical centre in Kyiv at the Kyiv Vocational College of Civil Construction. UAH 7 million in state funding and over UAH 2 million from businesses have already been raised for this purpose. Plans are in place to open similar centres in Chernivtsi and Kharkiv. According to Mr Orlenko, effective cooperation with an educational institution requires an engaged leader, support from local authorities, and business involvement to organise practical training.
Strategic cooperation has also begun with the Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture (KNUBA). The goal is to train structural engineers for the window industry. A training classroom is planned to be opened directly at the university.
The project has a clear action plan for 2025–2027. Ukrainian Association of Windows, Doors and Facade calls on companies in the sector to join the initiative.
