Validation of non-formal and informal learning – Ukraine

Since Ukraine has chosen the strategic course towards integration into the European Union, a number of essential steps have been taken to introduce European standards in different sectors. According to the Ukraine-European Union Association Agreement the realization of lifelong learning concept has become a priority for the national educational reforms. Considerable progress has been made in introducing non-formal and informal learning at legislation level: The Law “On Education” (2017) defines three types of education (formal, non-formal and informal) in line with the terms of International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) 2011. The state recognizes and encourages all types of education, as well as creates conditions for the development of educational entities that provide relevant educational services. The Ukrainian terms ‘non-formal/informal education’ and ‘non-formal/informal learning’ are used interchangeably. The term ‘recognition of (learning outcomes of) non-formal and informal learning / training’ is more prevalent in official documents dealing with validation.