The role of student additional professional education (APE) in the development of university educational ecosystems and the modern labor market

The topic of educational ecosystems is being actively explored in scientific literature, yet Student Additional Professional Education (SAPE) as an emerging component of these ecosystems remains largely understudied. This article offers a fresh perspective on the place and functions of SAPE within the context of evolving educational ecosystems. For the first time, based on current statistical data, the role of SAPE is demonstrated as a connecting link between the educational ecosystem and the labor market. Since 2021, there has been a significant increase in student engagement in the system of university-based additional professional education. However, the impact of the university SAPE system on the development of the modern labor market and the adaptation of young professionals to its demands remains limited at present. A comprehensive approach to analyzing SAPE is proposed, combining theoretical and empirical aspects. Educational ecosystems that integrate SAPE contribute to the creation of a more flexible and dynamic model for training specialists that aligns with the needs of the economy. The development of APE requires enhanced cooperation between universities, employers, and government bodies to achieve a synergistic effect in addressing the shared goal of improving the adaptability of young professionals in the labor market.