# Tuscany vocational training and education initiatives > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/tuscany-vocational-training-and-education-initiatives > Updated: 2026-08-14T07:30:48.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. The Tuscany region has introduced several initiatives focused on education and vocational training. Initially, the regional government established the 2026/2027 school calendar, setting start and end dates for primary, middle, and high schools. As part of this academic planning, the ‘GiovaniSì’ project was highlighted in Lucca, offering free three-year vocational courses for students who have completed middle school to help reduce dropout rates. Following these academic updates, the region announced a larger financial commitment, allocating 9.3 million euros from the PR FSE+ 2021-2027 fund. This funding is directed toward strategic vocational training in sectors such as craftsmanship, fashion, metallurgy, mechanics, tourism, and transport. The program specifically targets unemployed individuals, inactive persons, and workers facing significant reductions in working hours, aiming to align professional skills with the needs of the regional production system. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-14: Tuscany allocates 9.3 million euros for strategic vocational training Tuscany is investing 9.3 million euros in vocational training to address labor shortages in strategic sectors like tourism, mechanics, and fashion for unemployed and underemployed workers. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tuscany-allocates-93-million-euros-for-strategic-vocational-training ### 2026-08-11: Tuscany announces 2026/2027 school calendar and new vocational courses Tuscany has announced the 2026/2027 school calendar, starting September 15, 2026. Additionally, Lucca is launching free vocational training courses in hairdressing and hospitality for middle school graduates. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tuscany-announces-20262027-school-calendar-and-new-vocational-courses --- Cite as: Tuscany vocational training and education initiatives. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/tuscany-vocational-training-and-education-initiatives