Alo Savi, the head of vocational education at the Ministry of Education and Science, discussed under what conditions vocational education in Russian will remain possible. He said that more clarification is needed because many people are confused.
The Vocational Education Act states that the language of instruction for vocational upper secondary education is Estonian. A school may decide to use another language of instruction, but usually, teaching is conducted in Estonian. If teaching takes place in another language, the state does not fund it. The student must pay for it themselves.
From the 2025/2026 academic year, no non-Estonian language curricula have been opened in Estonian vocational education institutions. Part of the teaching may take place in another language, but the curricula funded by the state are in Estonian.
Savi said that some concepts and habits cause confusion. For example, what is level training and what is supplementary training. He emphasized the need for more clarification and clearer writing about these concepts.
The transition to Estonian-language curricula has already been defined. Currently, another language can make up to 40% of vocational education. From the 2030/2031 academic year, the curriculum must be entirely in Estonian.
Savi stressed three important topics: funding, whether it is level training or supplementary education, and whether it is an obligation, right, or opportunity.
When talking about supplementary training, it can take place in another language. Usually, the training customer pays for it. Today, there are over 50 supplementary training courses offered in Russian.
Vocational education institutions have the right to say they do not wish to offer training in another language. Then the customer must find another provider.
State-funded training orders are only for Estonian-language level training. For level training in another language, the participant or customer pays.
Vocational education institutions face a shortage of teachers. It is important that teachers meet qualification requirements, including proficiency in Estonian.
Savi praised Hendrik Agur, who organizes intensive Estonian language courses for those who need them. He said this is very important and helps promote Estonian-language education.