“Qualification Compass”: New Milestone Publication
On June 2, a new practical handbook on professional qualifications titled “Qualification Compass” was officially presented.
The guide was co-authored by Federation of Trade Unions of Ukraine (FPU) specialist Anna Pugachova and representatives of the National Qualifications Agency. Labor Initiatives lawyer Inna Kudinska moderated the presentation event, guiding the discussion as the authors highlighted the handbook’s distinct practical value for the unions and ordinary workers.
The initiative has been welcomed by trade union representatives, experts, employers, and the National Qualifications Agency alike. It stands out as a genuine, successful product of tripartite cooperation, providing a vital tool for navigating professional standards and workforce qualifications in the current labor landscape.
The presentation focused extensively on the practical application of the National Qualifications Framework, the ongoing work of qualification centers, and the launch and capabilities of the new Unified Register of Qualifications/Classifier of Occupations.
Additionally, the authors emphasized the importance of distinguishing, while simultaneously aligning, the core elements of workforce development: formal education, professional titles, professional qualifications, skills, and day-to-day working tasks. Professional qualifications must bridge the gap between a worker’s actual skills and the employer’s needs, ensuring fair remuneration without placing excessive, unrealistic demands on workers.
Crucially, the authors placed special emphasis on the so-called “trade union filter” – the strategic mechanisms that empower trade unions to actively influence and shape the content of professional standards.
The expert panel discussion titled “Human Capital and the National Qualifications System” tackled some of the most critical labor challenges facing the country today, including an unprecedented personnel shortage, the ongoing demographic crisis, and actionable strategies to bridge the gap between education, skills, and the real-time needs of modern business.
