French National Agency for Adult Vocational Training

The French Agency for Adult Vocational Training (AFPA) is focused on professional training and workforce development. Founded in 1949, AFPA is one of the largest vocational training providers in France and operates under the supervision of the French Ministry of Labor. Overall, AFPA serves as a bridge between individuals and the evolving labour market, promoting professional integration and economic resilience through skill development. Its core mission is to support individuals, particularly jobseekers and vulnerable populations in acquiring the skills needed for employment, career transitions, or upskilling. AFPA delivers certified training programs aligned with labour market needs. AFPA also plays a key role in supporting lifelong learning, offering both short and long-term programs, and increasingly integrates digital and blended learning formats. It works closely with employers, regional governments, and public employment services to match training content with real-world job demands. In addition to training delivery, AFPA offers career counselling, skills assessment, and social support services to help learners succeed, especially those facing barriers to employment. The institution also contributes to national social inclusion and economic development policies through initiatives aimed at disadvantaged communities and regions.

In the Skills Alliance for Ukraine, AFPA is engaged through the STIYKIST project, led by Expertise France. AFPA contributes through two main areas of cooperation:

• Area 1: VOCATIONAL TRAINING & RESILIENCE
AFPA experts are providing technical support to the Ukrainian Ministry of Education and Science to develop adult vocational training centred on the construction sector. This technical assistance will include training engineering through the development of curricula adapted to market needs and training of trainers.

• Area 2: EMPLOYMENT ACCESS FOR VULNERABLE GROUPS
AFPA also supports the Ministry of Education and Science by designing inclusive training pathways programs to promote vocational training and facilitate access to sustainable employment for women, people with disabilities and veterans.

These two areas of cooperation adress priority needs identified by the Ukrainian government, particularly in terms of vocational training and access to employment for vulnerable groups.