The Estonian Ministry of Education is initiating a plan to significantly increase the number of places available in higher education institutions. An allocation of 9.7 million euros from the state budget has been requested for the next year, with a focus on enhancing applied higher education opportunities. Minister Kristina Kallas emphasized that many study programs may be adapted to fit applied higher education standards to meet future job market demands.

With one of the largest generations of learners approaching higher education age, the Ministry plans to expand the intake at universities and applied science schools. New additional places will be created in fields where there is a recognized labor shortage, which aligns with the government's goal of addressing career-oriented education. Minister Kallas highlighted that this initiative aims to create approximately 12,000 to 13,000 new places over the next six to seven years, particularly in areas such as teacher training, engineering, health care, medicine, veterinary science, as well as national and internal security.

The overarching goal is to ensure that by 2035, the education system accommodates the increasing number of students. This strategic expansion not only aims to fortify specific sectors facing workforce shortages but also reflects Estonia's commitment to investing in its educational infrastructure and fostering a skilled future workforce poised to tackle both local and global challenges.