From March 11 to 13, a three-day training session was held for employees of the regional centers of the Unified Social Service (USS) under the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. The training focused on mechanisms for the reintegration of women aged 30-40 into the Armenian labor market.
The training for USS representatives was organized by the OxYGen Foundation. The thematic content was developed and delivered by the Yerevan State University (YSU) Center for Demographic Research and Education within the framework of the project ” “Demographic Resilience: Expanding Women’s Capacities and Choices through Data-driven Policies”
Communication, Well-being, and Resilience
On the first day of the training, participants focused on various communication skills essential for their work. Led by Yuliana Melkumyan, Head of the YSU Department of Social Work and Social Technologies, the session covered the nuances of verbal and written communication in the workplace, conflict management, public speaking, and self-presentation skills.
In the second half of the day, participants studied work-life balance, time management, and resilience mechanisms with Gohar Khachatryan, a lecturer at the Department of Social Work and Social Technologies. Then, with Gohar Shahnazaryan, a candidate of sociological sciences at YSU, they discussed issues of work and their mental health and developed a well-being and resilience plan.
Career Development and Gender Sensitivity
The second day focused on employment and career guidance. Together with Mariam Mkhitaryan, participants discussed career path selection and professional profile building, as well as mapping their own skills.
Later in the day, Gohar Khachatryan presented gender-related issues and the importance of anti-discriminatory practices. USS employees discussed gender norms, existing labor market stereotypes, and various forms of discrimination within the Armenian context. This was followed by a session on workplace efficiency and leadership.
Program Development and Practical Application
On the final day, Yuliana Melkumyan introduced procedures for grant proposal writing and project development. Discussions also covered potential risks, financial literacy, and other practical aspects of project management.
The event concluded with an interactive summary by Gohar Shahnazaryan. Participants shared their impressions, emphasizing the importance of the training, and confirming that the knowledge gained would be directly applied to their daily work.
The “Demographic Resilience: Enhancing Women’s Capacities and Choice Opportunities through Data-Driven Policies” project is implemented by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and funded by the UK Government through the UK International Development support.
