Starting with the school year 2026-2027, graduates of middle school can opt for dual education, which will allow them to obtain a professional qualification in high school, without giving up the baccalaureate.

The Ministry of Education has announced that, starting with the 2026-2027 school year, eighth-grade graduates will be able to pursue dual education, a form of vocational training that combines theoretical study with practical experience within companies. This reform will allow students to obtain qualifications in various fields, such as mechanics, tourism, and commerce, without losing the chance to take the baccalaureate exam.

Dual education is aimed at 16-year-olds who wish to acquire and develop professional skills through a partnership between schools and employers. Practical training will take place both in schools and in companies, and students will receive nationally recognized qualification certificates.

The new structure will replace the current model, allowing students to obtain two professional qualifications, one at the end of the 11th grade and another at the end of the 12th grade. Additionally, technological high schools will need to be accredited to offer these programs. Interest in dual education has significantly increased in recent years, accounting for 20.26% of the total vocational education in the 2024-2025 school year.