In a span of just five months since its launch, the Czech government’s e-shop dedicated to providing digital retraining courses for the working population has garnered substantial interest, with over 3,300 people signing up for courses. The initiative, aimed at helping individuals improve their digital skills, has received support from the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, with an average government contribution of nearly 15,400 Czech korunas per participant.

The e-shop serves as a valuable resource for individuals of working age, including the unemployed and those seeking to transition to different professions. Participants are required to pay an average of 3,200 korunas for their chosen courses, with the government covering the remaining expenses.

To date, the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs has authorized payments totaling 6.599 million korunas (approximately $305,000). This amount is expected to increase to 10.197 million korunas (around $471,000) if participants successfully complete their courses. In such cases, the average government contribution per individual reaches 18,952 korunas (approximately $874).

The e-shop is open to a wide range of individuals interested in enhancing their skills, including employees, entrepreneurs, parents on parental leave, working seniors, and students. However, to qualify for course funding, participants must be added to the register of job seekers.

It’s essential to clarify that the e-shop’s purpose is not to assist job seekers in finding employment but rather to offer opportunities for individuals to upskill in digital competencies. Upon completing their chosen courses, participants can be removed from the register of job seekers without any associated obligations.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs has allocated funding for multiple courses, allowing individuals to access training in digital skills, with a maximum total contribution of 50,000 korunas (approximately $2,310) over three years. These courses are specifically focused on digital skills development and do not encompass training in other fields such as trades.

The government’s investment in digital retraining through the e-shop reflects a commitment to bolstering the skills of the workforce in the digital age. The high level of interest demonstrated by the number of registrations underscores the value of initiatives aimed at enhancing digital competencies, ultimately contributing to a more technologically adept and competitive workforce.

Article by Prague Forum