Iris Luik, a student at the University of Tartu, expresses her deep concern regarding the status and quality of vocational education in Estonia. Despite her role as a higher education student, she feels compelled to address the negative perceptions surrounding vocational training. Luik emphasizes that the devaluation of vocational education is not just a personal concern, but a significant issue that affects many students and the workforce as a whole.

In her commentary, Luik highlights how societal attitudes contribute to the image problem of vocational education, leading to a lack of respect and recognition for those pursuing these paths. This devaluation can dissuade potential students from considering vocational training, ultimately impacting the quality and availability of skilled labor in Estonia. She advocates for a shift in perspective that values vocational education as an essential component of the country's educational landscape.

Luik calls for collective action to elevate the status of vocational training, urging educators, policymakers, and society to recognise its importance. By improving the image and quality of vocational education, she believes that Estonia can cultivate a more skilled and versatile workforce, which is crucial for future economic development.