Czechia: unveiling the innovative e-shop to boost digital skills training

E-shop for re-training and further training courses is ready

The Ministry of Labour launched an online platform called the ‘Database of re-training and further training courses’ or ‘e-shop’ in early 2023. This platform integrates three types of courses:

• traditional accredited re-training courses mediated by the Labour Office, mainly for unemployed persons and persons seeking career advancement. These courses, which are selected based on the contracts with training providers organised by the Office, are covered by the Labour Office. Applicants for these courses are redirected to the Labour Office via the e-shop;
• so called retraining courses by choice, where participants select a course from a list of accredited courses and apply to the Labour Office for funding, which can cover costs up to CZK 50 000 (approximately EUR 2 130), upon successful completion of the course;
• newly introduced re-training courses specifically focused on digital and Industry 4.0 skills, which represent a significant innovation and are a key component of the programme. It is assumed that digital education generally improves the employability of applicants, thus these courses do not require an individual suitability assessment by the Labour Office. At the same time, all training providers are eligible to offer their digital training courses via the e-shop, with no accreditation required. Upon successful completion of the course, the training providers will receive a subsidy of 82% of the course fee. The rest is paid by the participant. The programme provides a maximum total allowance of CZK 50 000 per person within 3 consecutive calendar years. Any citizen over the age of 18 can apply for these courses directly via the e-shop. The applicant becomes a registered client of the Labour Office until the course is completed.

Massive campaign to encourage adult education

The e-shop serves as a communication platform for training providers, the Labour Office, and clients, enabling online administration. Following the compilation of a robust course catalogue, the Ministry of Labour launched a massive public information campaign to encourage citizens to apply for training.

While providers offering digital and Industry 4.0 re-training courses do not need to undergo an accreditation process, they must meet minimal requirements, including having relevant legal permits, at least 18 months of experience in providing education, compliance with minimum standards for venue and equipment, and adherence to legislative standards for lecturing activities.

The introduction of the new programme in Czechia represents a significant advancement towards expanding the availability of training opportunities in the context of digital transformation and Industry 4.0. A major advantage of the programme is that is focuses on providing subsidised training with minimal administrative and certification requirements, benefiting both training providers and individuals wishing to improve their skills.

Read more

• Description of the ‘E-shop project’ on the Ministry of Labour website