Training at the ISEC NAS RA on the topic of “Professional and Soft Skills Development for the Displaced Armenians" within the framework of the grant program "EU4Dialogue"
December 26, 2024
With funding provided within the framework of the European Union’s “EU4Dialogue” grant program, the Department of Foreign Languages of the International Scientific and Educational Center of the National Academy of Sciences of RA, represented by the Head of the Department, PhD, Associate Professor Gohar Grigoryan, and lecturers Lilit Manvelyan and Karolina Sahakyan, organized and successfully implemented an innovative training course on the topic “Professional and Soft Skills Development for the Displaced Armenians” from December 6 to 9. The training was attended by 13 young adults aged 16 to 29, displaced from Hadrut, Stepanakert, Martakert, Artsvashen, Kashatagh, Shushi, and other regions of the Republic of Artsakh as well as 4 volunteers. In today’s world, where, in addition to professional knowledge, soft skills are necessary to remain competitive in the labor market, such courses help bridge this gap and offer young people the opportunity to build a new life, integrate into the labor market, and make a valuable contribution to their community.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Director of the Center, A. Sargsyan, the Deputy Director on Educational Affairs, E. Zargaryan, and the Dean of Office, A. Mkhitaryan.In his opening speech, director A. Sargsyan mentioned that the project contributes to the development of soft skills for displaced Artsakhians and the creation of new opportunities for them to rebuild their lives and achieve success in personal and professional spheres. The director especially welcomed Professor Bohm from Austria, a highly qualified specialist whose experience working with communities in conflict regions brings immense value to this initiative. Additionally, he expressed deep gratitude to the project manager and coordinators for their hard work and determination, which have become the driving force behind this project.
Professor Jan Böhm, a recognized and experienced expert in pedagogy from the University of Eastern Austria, conducted the training. During the four-day training, he introduced the participants to the following professional and soft skills:
- Career Development
- Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
- Time Management and Goal Setting
- Communication Skills
- Empowerment for Long-Term Sustainability
Through lectures and practical assignments, the participants gained skills in writing resumes, job searching, and participating in interviews, as well as in presentation skills, email communication, and effective time management. Additionally, they learned practical methods for effectively overcoming challenges and developed abilities in prioritizing tasks and setting achievable goals.
On December 9th, the participants of the program had memorable moments at the "Manukyan" Winery and Brandy Factory, where, after a tour, they were treated to a wine tasting and refreshments.
On December 10th, as part of the cultural day, the participants visited the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. They visited the Mother Cathedral, the Ruben Sevak Museum, and got acquainted with the museum's rare exhibits.
The program's closing ceremony took place at the “Komitas Palace of Culture” of the Vagharshapat Municipality, where the participants were welcomed by the director of the palace, Hasmik Adamyan, a lecturer at the Department of Foreign Languages of the ISEC NAS RA. In a warm and welcoming atmosphere, accompanied by multi-genre performances by the orchestra, the solemn ceremony of awarding certificates took place.
The implementation of the project was facilitated by the International Scientific and Educational Center of ISEC NAS RA, the DAAD Tbilisi Regional Office, “Grand Hotel Yerevan”, “Manukyan” Wine and Brandy Factory for co-financing and the “Komitas Palace of Culture” of the Vagharshapat Municipality for hosting and hospitality.
