HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

Ukraine’s healthcare system continues to face significant workforce shortages, particularly among junior healthcare professionals. At the same time, ongoing reforms and labour market changes are increasing demand for qualified personnel while creating new opportunities for adult retraining and workforce entry. 

The project contributes to strengthening Ukraine’s healthcare system through human capital development and expanded employment opportunities by providing short-term vocational training in junior healthcare professions. The initiative combines practice-oriented learning, career support, and employer engagement, helping adults acquire relevant skills for the healthcare sector while enabling healthcare providers to recruit qualified personnel. 

The project focuses on two professions that play an important role in the delivery of essential healthcare services: Junior Nurse and Emergency Medical Technician. Through accredited training programmes, participants gain nationally recognised qualifications and practical competencies that enable them to enter or remain in the healthcare workforce. 

A dedicated component of the project also strengthens the capacity of educational institutions to deliver high-quality medical training. By improving learning environments and access to modern equipment, the initiative contributes to the long-term development of a skilled healthcare workforce and the continuity of healthcare services. 

  • Project Name
    U-MED: Strengthening Ukraine's Medical Capacity through Adult Training in Junior Medical Professions
  • Project Phase
    2025 to 2026
  • Funding
    Ministry of the Interior of the Czech Republi
  • Thematic focus
    Skills, Jobs and Income

Impact in Numbers

160

participants obtained certification in healthcare professions 

3

month practice-oriented training programmes

3

career orientation and job-matching events organised 

100

participants engaged in employment-focused activities 

2

educational institutions received material and technical support 

Workforce development for in-demand healthcare professions 

Participants completed short-term, practice-oriented training programmes leading to qualifications as Junior Nurses and Emergency Medical Technicians. Delivered by accredited educational institutions in line with national standards, the programmes combined theoretical instruction with practical training in real healthcare settings. 

Special attention was given to engaging individuals facing additional barriers to employment and professional development. The training enabled participants to acquire new competencies, improve their employability, and access career opportunities in professions that are essential to the functioning of Ukraine’s healthcare system. 

Career orientation and labour market integration 

Training was complemented by career orientation and employment support activities designed to facilitate participants’ transition into the labour market. Participants visited healthcare facilities, met potential employers, and gained first-hand insight into workplace requirements, career pathways, and employment opportunities within the sector. 

This approach helps bridge the gap between training and employment, while enabling healthcare providers to recruit qualified candidates equipped with practical skills and nationally recognised credentials.  

Strengthening the capacity of educational institutions 

The project provided material and technical support to two educational institutions delivering healthcare training programmes. Support included equipment and learning materials used for practical instruction and skills development. 

Improved training facilities enhance the quality and relevance of vocational education, expand opportunities for hands-on learning, and strengthen institutions’ capacity to prepare future healthcare professionals in line with labour market demand and sector needs.