On March 17–19, 2026, a Ukrainian delegation in the field of adult education conducted a study visit to Sweden. Among the participants were Serhii Babak, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Committee on Education, Science and Innovation; his deputy, Serhii Koleboshyn; Deputy Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine Mykola Trofymenko; as well as representatives of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, and DVV International in Ukraine.
The visit was organized by DVV International in cooperation with the European Association for the Education of Adults and aimed to deepen cooperation and exchange best practices in the field of adult education.
As part of the program, meetings were held with representatives of public institutions, civil society organizations, and adult education providers, during which approaches to policymaking, funding, and the organization of lifelong learning were discussed.
High-Level Dialogue at the Swedish Parliament
The program began in Stockholm with a meeting at the Swedish Parliament (Riksdag), where the Ukrainian delegation met with Lotta Edholm, Sweden’s Minister for Adult Education. Discussions focused on national policies, governance structures, and the role of adult education in fostering democratic resilience and social inclusion.
The delegation also held meetings with members of the parliamentary friendship group with Ukraine and representatives of committees, including the chairs of the parliamentary committees on education and culture. This exchange of experience highlighted the importance of the Swedish tradition of folkbildning (non-formal adult education) as a foundation for civic engagement.
Exploring Sweden’s Adult Learning Ecosystem
On the second day, participants gathered at Medborgarhuset, a hub for civic and cultural activities, where Gustav Fridolin, former Minister of Education, presented an overview of the Swedish adult education system. The session emphasized inclusivity, learner-centered approaches, and the integration of vulnerable groups.
The delegation visited Sensus Study Association, where they observed educational activities tailored for Ukrainians, including Swedish language, job coaching, and conversational training supported by volunteers. These initiatives demonstrated practical models for supporting integration and lifelong learning.
Later, at Birkagården Folk High School, participants explored a range of programs, from senior education to vocational training for teaching assistants. The visit underscored the flexibility and community-oriented nature of Swedish folk high schools.
A dedicated session on Nordic–Ukrainian cooperation in adult education highlighted opportunities for sustained collaboration and joint initiatives.
Focus on Vocational Education and Labour Market Integration
The final day of the visit focused on vocational education and its alignment with labour market needs. At the Stockholm Technical Institute and in collaboration with the Swedish National Agency for Higher Vocational Education, the delegation examined models of skills development, employer engagement, and quality assurance.
A work meeting at the Swedish National Council of Adult Education provided further insights into national coordination mechanisms and international cooperation.
The delegation also visited Komvux Södermalm and SIFA (Swedish for Immigrants for Academics), where they learned about tailored educational pathways supporting migrants’ integration into the labour market.
The program concluded with a meeting at the Swedish Trade Union Confederation, focusing on the Swedish labour-market model and the role of adult education in supporting workforce adaptability and social dialogue.
Strengthening Cooperation for Ukraine’s Recovery
This study visit provided a valuable platform for Ukrainian stakeholders to explore innovative approaches to adult education, particularly in areas such as inclusion, vocational training, and civic participation. The gained experience will contribute to ongoing reform efforts in Ukraine’s adult learning system, especially in the context of recovery and European integration.
The Representative Office of DVV International in Ukraine remains committed to fostering international partnerships and supporting the development of a resilient, inclusive, and future-oriented adult education sector.