Erasmus+ 2024–2027

Powering Renewable Energy Workforce

REnForce strengthens Vocational Education & Training in Armenia's renewable energy sector — modernising curricula, upskilling educators, and connecting training with industry.

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Meet our partners
🇪🇺 Co-funded by the European Union · ERASMUS-EDU-2024-CB-VET

About the Project

REnForce – Strengthening Workforce Potential in the Renewable Energy Sector

An Erasmus+ Capacity Building initiative transforming vocational education in Armenia for a greener economy.

Project Overview

REnForce is an Erasmus+ Capacity Building project dedicated to transforming Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Armenia, with a sharp focus on the rapidly growing renewable energy sector. By bridging the gap between education and industry, the project equips VET institutions, their staff, and students with the knowledge, tools, and partnerships needed to meet the demands of a greener economy.

Armenia is experiencing growing demand for skilled professionals in solar and renewable energy. Yet its VET system has struggled to keep pace with industry needs. REnForce directly addresses this challenge — modernising curricula, training educators, and fostering structural collaboration between schools and employers.

Project Number
101183074
Programme
Erasmus+ (ERASMUS-EDU-2024-CB-VET)
Funded by
European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA)
Project Duration
1 January 2025 – 31 December 2027
36 months

Key Focus Areas

Work-Based Learning

in VET

Capacity Building

of VET Providers

VET–Labour Market Links

Strengthening Industry Ties

Solar Panel Technology

Renewable Energy Education

Programme Modernisation

Curriculum Development

About the Project

News & Events

All news
monitoring visit 2025 december 2

Strengthening Collaboration: RISEBA Monitoring Visit in Armenia

On 1–2 December 2025, the RISEBA team, as coordinators of the Erasmus+ REnForce project, carried out the first face-to-face monitoring...

training nov 2025 2

RISEBA and EU Partners Deliver Administrative Training within REnForce Project

On 27–28 November 2025, RISEBA University of Applied Sciences, together with EU partners from Latvia, the Czech Republic and Belgium,...

training sc 2025 3

RISEBA Hosts Armenian Delegation for REnForce Project Training Week

From 29 September to 3 October 2025, RISEBA, as the coordinating organization of the Erasmus+ project “Strengthening work force potential...

Meet Our Partners

REnForce brings together 10 institutions across 4 countries — combining academic expertise, vocational training experience, and industry knowledge.

Latvia
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RISEBA University of Applied Sciences

A private higher education institution offering internationally accredited programmes in business, media, and architecture.

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Belgium
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Institut de Haute Formation aux Politiques Communautaires

Specialised institute focused on EU policy training and community governance programmes across Europe.

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Czech Republic
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Škoda Auto University

Combining business education with deep automotive industry expertise and applied research in the Czech Republic.

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Latvia
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The Green and Smart Technology Cluster (GSTC)

Synergising green innovation and smart technology across member organisations in Latvia.

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Armenia
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Armenian State University of Economics

Founded in 1930, a leading institution offering economics, finance, and management programmes in Armenia.

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Armenia
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Yerevan College of "National Polytechnical University of Armenia"

A polytechnical college affiliated with the National Polytechnical University, training skilled technical specialists.

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Armenia
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Gyumri Craftsman State School No. 4

Established in 2009, a vocational training centre developing craft and trade skills in the Gyumri region.

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Armenia
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Republican Union of Employers of Armenia

Established in 2007, representing employer interests and promoting business development across Armenia.

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Armenia
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«Tavush Patrick Devedjian Regional College» Foundation

Supporting vocational education and community development in the Tavush region of Armenia.

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Armenia
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Arpi Solar

One of the most experienced solar energy companies advancing sustainable energy solutions in the region.

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Ready to learn more about REnForce?

Whether you're a VET institution, industry partner, or researcher interested in renewable energy education — we'd love to connect.

Contact us
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RISEBA University of Applied Sciences

RISEBA University of Applied Sciences is a private higher education institution in Latvia, accredited by the Ministry of Education and Science. It is among the top 10 largest higher education institutions in Latvia, with almost 3,000 students, including 200 international students, offering creative study programmes in the various fields: Business, Psychology, Communications, Audio-visual media arts and Architecture. RISEBA offers unique programs and was the first to introduce several to the market, with degrees available in Latvian and English.

The university is a member of global and European associations such as EFMD, AACSB, CEEMAN, and others. RISEBA actively participates in international chambers of commerce in Latvia and engages with local stakeholders through the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Confederation of Latvian Employers.

The university emphasizes interdisciplinary, multicultural education, aiming to produce intelligent, creative, and independently thinking graduates. With 64 full-time faculty members, RISEBA provides high-quality education and research.

The Lifelong Learning Center at RISEBA offers over 50 programs for adults, with more than 4,000 participants in 2022. RISEBA also runs the Creative Business Incubator, supporting students and graduates in developing business ideas and startups, focusing on Creative Industries, Social Entrepreneurship, and Innovation.

RISEBA conducts research in various fields, including strategic management, sport management, public management, business IT, entrepreneurship, economics, innovation, lifelong education, and more. The university supports career development through events like RISEBA Career Days, fostering strong ties with employers and alumni.

Links
https://riseba.lv/en/home/

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Institut de Haute Formation aux Politiques Communautaires

IHF, Institut de Haute Formation aux Politiques Communautaires asbl, is a non profit organisation established in Brussels (Belgium) in 2003.

The principal aim of IHF is to provide the community (including non profit and local authorities) with assistance for the development of a wider international cooperation through activities of specialised training on European policies and the dissemination of European values.

One of the means to reach this objective is the organisation of highly specialised courses and seminars focused at the development of European projects. The courses focus on EU Policies and Legislation, International Relations and Project Management, promoting the possibility to participate in EU-funded programmes.

IHF organises also study groups to Brussels for young graduates, local authorities representatives, SMEs, Universities, promoting mobility activities at different training levels. Since 2004 IHF organised more than 40 study visits to Brussels for more than 500 people.

HF took part as associate partner in previous EU funded projects, contributing mainly to Dissemination and exploitation activities. IHF provides further assistance through continuous monitoring of EU legislation and European Institution activities, and consequent spread of related information, assistance in the search for partners and building up of networks.

Thanks to its presence in Brussels IHF asbl developed relevant experience in the organisation of Dissemination and Valorisation activities at EU level, through contacts with MEPs, other European associations and Institutions, stakeholders, consumers groups etc.

Links
https://www.ihfeurope.eu/

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Škoda Auto University

Škoda Auto University (ŠAU) is a private higher education institution established in 2000 by the Škoda Auto automotive company with the aim of integrating economic and technical education with practical experience. Through close collaboration with industry partners and a strong focus on innovation, it provides education that meets the current demands of the labor market.

Students are offered bachelor’s and master’s programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The curriculum emphasizes mandatory internships, work placements, and engagement in real-world projects in cooperation with leading Czech and international companies.

ŠAU is also highly active on the international stage. It collaborates with universities and research institutions worldwide, participates in prestigious international projects, and offers students a wide range of study and internship opportunities abroad. Through the Double Degree program, students can study in partnership with universities in Austria, Finland, Belgium and Germany. Teaching takes place in Mladá Boleslav or Prague, in Czech or English, and is available in full-time or part-time study modes.

ŠAU is the first and so far the only private university in the Czech Republic with institutional accreditation, confirming the high quality of education it provides. It is also a holder of the prestigious ACBSP accreditation. Thanks to its strong industry ties and international reach, graduates find employment not only in the automotive sector but also in various other industries in the Czech Republic and abroad.

Links
https://www.savs.cz/en/

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The Green and Smart Technology Cluster (GSTC)

The Green and Smart Technology Cluster (GSTC) in Latvia synergizes greentech, digitalization, and energy efficiency to redefine industries and promotes an effective balance between business development and sustainability. The GSTC collaborative ecosystem fosters greentech initiatives, helps integrate advanced digital solutions for sustainability, and advances energy-efficient practices both in the general public as well enterprises, all while providing expertise, networking opportunities, and advocacy for a future where technology drives positive environmental and economic outcomes. The GSTC provides its members and partners with networking, innovation and collaboration opportunities and drives greener and smarter tomorrow by utilizing more than 10 years of expertise in providing business support activities, a vast network of contacts and partners, and participation in policy-making and governmental work-groups.

Links
https://greentechlatvia.eu/en/home/

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Armenian State University of Economics

The Armenian State University of Economics (ASUE) was founded in 1930, but its modern history began on August 6, 1975, marking a new chapter in its development. Today, ASUE is the largest and most prominent economic university in Armenia, with over 9,000 students and a faculty and staff of more than 700.

ASUE comprises six departments, 20 chairs, and operates two branches within Armenia. The university also maintains partnerships with both local and European universities. Renowned for its excellence in teaching, ASUE is equally respected for its research contributions. It offers a wide range of educational programs at the vocational education and training (VET), Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels. The ASUE College of Finance and Economics is an integral part of the university’s structure.

On December 29, 2015, the Government of the Republic of Armenia decided to affiliate the Yerevan State Financial and Economic College State Non-Commercial Organization with the Armenian State University of Economics State Non-Commercial Organization.

ASUE College currently has approximately 1,140 students enrolled in secondary professional education programs and around 100 students in preliminary (handicraft) professional education programs. The college staff includes 28 administrative employees and approximately 114 faculty members.

As part of its secondary vocational education offerings, the college prepares specialists in the following eight fields:

  • Marketing
  • Finance
  • Accounting
  • Management
  • Insurance
  • Banking
  • Tourism
  • Organization of Services in Hotels and Tourism Complexes

Links
https://asue.am/en
https://asue.am/en/asue/college

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Yerevan College of "National Polytechnical University of Armenia"

Yerevan College of “National Polytechnical University of Armenia” foundation. Since 1993, the Yerevan College of the National Polytechnic University of Armenia (NPUA) has been dedicated to workforce development. The college offers technological education by integrating practical innovation into technological studies, preparing skilled professionals with technological expertise.

Starting in 2010, the college began admitting students based on the completion of basic general education (9th grade). Currently, the Yerevan College of NPUA offers education through vocational training programs.

In 2011, by a decision of the Government of the Republic of Armenia, the Yerevan State Industrial College merged with NPUA, giving new impetus to the organization of vocational education at the university. Today, more than 1,700 students are enrolled in 14 different specializations at the Yerevan College of NPUA.

Earning a qualification from a technological college opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates of the college, thanks to their academic achievements, high-level skills, and communication abilities, are in high demand on the job market. Moreover, the practical learning experience provided at the college equips students with knowledge that helps them harness the power of technology and innovation to solve challenges in the labor market.

Many of the college’s top-performing graduates, after continuing their studies through the university’s distance learning bachelor’s program, have earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The best among them have also obtained the academic degree of Candidate of Technical Sciences.

College students enjoy all the rights of those enrolled in the university’s educational programs. Graduates are awarded qualifications in their respective fields of study.

College specialties and directions

  1. Installation, technical maintenance and repair of medical equipment.
  2. Connection Networks and Communication Systems.
  3. Technical maintenance and repair of radio-electronic equipment.
  4. Software for Computing Equipment and Automated Systems.
  5. Installation, adjustment, and operation of electrical equipment in (for) industrial and civil buildings.
  6. Technical maintenance and repair of motor vehicles (the road transport).
  7. Computer art design.
  8. Postal Service (mail service/connection)
  9. Analytical control if the quality of chemical compounds.
  10. Mechatronics.
  11. Technical maintenance and repair of electric transport(vehicles).
  12. Aviation instruments (devices) and systems.
  13. Multi-beam (multipath) Telecommunication systems.
  14. Computer Graphics.

Armenia, Yerevan, Teryan 105, 0009
+374 10 58 01 02

Links
https://polytech.am/college/
info@polytechnic.am

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Gyumri Craftsman State School No. 4

Gyumri Craftsman State School No. 4, established in 2009 and operating under Armenia’s Ministry of Education, is a state non-profit organization specializing in vocational education. Accredited as Armenia’s first Craftsman State School in 2024 for four years, its mission is to train competitive craftsmen in line with national and international standards while fostering professional and personal development.

The school offers 10 vocational programs, including Furniture Production, Jewelry Art, Culinary Arts, Solar Energy Maintenance, and Leather Goods Technology, supported by modern facilities such as laboratories, workshops, and an accessible infrastructure. It emphasizes innovative education models like dual education and entrepreneurship training, partnering with organizations such as GIZ, UNESCO, and Erasmus+.

Recognized for advancing vocational education reform, the school’s nine lecturers have developed educational standards, with five earning professional certification. Committed to sustainability and community impact, Gyumri Craftsman School No. 4 continues shaping the future of vocational training in Armenia.

Links
https://gyumriusumnaran4.am/

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Republican Union of Employers of Armenia

The Republican Union of Employers of Armenia was established in 2007 based on the Armenian laws on “Labour Code” and “Employers’ Unions”, as well as in line the requirements of conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO) RUEA advocates for the collective interests of employers in Armenia by implementing initiatives at various state levels aimed at promoting business growth and fostering socio-economic development.

RUEA is the only official social partner of the Government of Armenia along with the Confederation of Trade Unions of Armenia (CTUA).

The mission of RUEA is to promote continuous improvement of business environment, protect the interests of the business community and employers driving towards economic growth and prosperity.

The vision of RUEA is to become the leading voice of employers in Armenia as the most influential organization representing economic, labor, and social issues to foster sustainable and competitive entrepreneurship development and decent work environment.

RUEA membership is eligible for any micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, individual entrepreneurs and non-governmenatal organizations, operating in Armenia, regardless of the sphere of economy.

Currently RUEA unites about 800 members, including direct and non-direct members, members of territorial and sectoral unions. They represent almost all sectors of the Armenian economy.

Links
https://www.employers.am/
https://www.facebook.com/employers.am
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ruea/

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The «Tavush Patrick Devedjian Regional College» Foundation

The «Tavush Patrick Devedjian Regional College» Foundation was established on July 14, 2022, as a result of the reorganization of the «Tavush Regional State College SNCO. Since 2022, the College has been gradually implementing the French model of “work-based learning” within vocational education.

The Armenian Foundation of France, in cooperation with the RA Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports, oversees the management and financing of the College — constructing, renovating, and improving the four-story building and the adjacent 1.3-hectare area for over 300 students, while also creating laboratory and workshop conditions for vocational education.

Since 2017, the College has been involved in the «Testing of Dual System in VET Sector» program, implemented within the framework of the «Private Sector Development and Vocational Education and Training in the South Caucasus» project by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).

Always responding to labor market demands, the College specializes in training professionals in agriculture, auto maintenance, tourism, culinary arts, solar energy systems, and finance.

Links
https://www.spyur.am/am/companies/patrick-devedjian-regional-college-of-tavush/5687/

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Arpi Solar

Arpi Solar is one of the most experienced companies in the field of solar energetics.

Founded in 2012, Arpi Solar has achieved high results in the design and installation of solar systems and has contributed to the development of solar energy in Armenia, making it simple, affordable and unruffled. Providing honest and high-quality professional services is one of the main principles of our company, which, in our opinion, is the basis for the sustainable development of Arpi Solari. Our experienced specialists are based on international quality standards and best practices in this area, adapting each solar system to the real needs of our customers.

Arpi Solar uses only high-quality products and components produced by leading global manufacturers, with the result that our solar systems provide maximum energy for the longest possible period. Over the years, we have established strong partnerships with leading and most innovative companies in the world. We can offer the best products available on the market and offer a wide range of systems of any size, offering competitive prices and high quality.

Links
https://www.facebook.com/ArpiSolar/?locale=hy_AM
https://arpisolar.com/