The Swiss-Ukrainian DECIDE project, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, has announced a competitive selection process for communities to join in creating a modern career guidance system for students in grades 8–9. The initiative is being implemented as part of the third stage of the New Ukrainian School reform and is aimed at developing senior specialised schools.
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Communities that pass the selection process will have the opportunity to participate in a grant programme for the creation of modern career guidance spaces. Up to 50 grants are available for the most active communities. Schools will also be able to establish cooperation with businesses and colleges, organise internships and career guidance events. Pupils in grades 8–9 will have access to a new course, “Career Guidance in Schools (JOBs)”, and teachers will be able to undergo career counsellor training developed by the Zurich University of Teacher Education.
The DECIDE project is being implemented in Ukraine by the NGO DOKKU in partnership with the Zurich University of Teacher Education and with the support of Switzerland. It combines two key reforms — education and decentralisation — and also provides for the active involvement of citizens in democratic governance.
Applications for participation will be accepted from 15 to 29 September 2025. The results of the competition will be announced after 17 October and will be published on the official resources of the project and its partners.
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