Capacity Building

The Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) Rebuild Ukraine was launched at the Berne University of Applied Sciences with the support of the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and in collaboration with other Swiss universities. It is a practically oriented advanced training program tailored for Ukrainian refugees, as well as Ukrainians who have been residing in Switzerland before the war, as well as for individuals affiliated with aid organizations that are eager to participate actively in the reconstruction of Ukraine.

A second phase (2024–2026) of the CAS Rebuild Ukraine will widen the circle of participants, targeting Ukrainians abroad and in the country by offering the possibility of online participation. CAS Rebuild Ukraine is planned to be established in Ukraine.

CAS training aims to prepare «leaders of change» for post-war Ukraine, focusing on «building back better» principles endorsed during the Lugano Recovery Conference (2022) and ensuring that participants acquire knowledge on sustainable and resilient reconstruction practices. Involving 20+ partners from diverse sectors, including business, science, research, and the public, the CAS Rebuild Ukraine program has accumulated comprehensive expertise, providing a robust curriculum that addresses the multifaceted challenges of post-war reconstruction. Among others, participants learn about sustainable approaches to reconstruction, the principles of circular economy, and energy efficiency in the reconstruction of Ukraine. They explore methods, tools, and software for assessing damages to houses and infrastructure, approaches for reusing war debris, and best practices in construction and architecture, with a focus on concepts like smart villages and smart cities. The unique approach of the CAS envisions participants co-designing real rebuilding projects for Ukraine with the support of Swiss companies and universities and in collaboration with Ukrainian stakeholders.

The program attracts highly educated professionals, leading to building strong network of Ukrainians to support recovery of Ukraine. CAS Rebuild Ukraine has evolved into a platform where Swiss and Ukrainian stakeholders come together to co-design real projects for post-war reconstruction.