At the end of May, a meeting of the Partnership Council on vocational education, mentorship and youth adaptation to industrial environments was held. The event brought together representatives of employers, trade union organisations, the employment service, vocational education institutions, and Dnipropetrovsk Regional Scientific and Methodological Centre for Vocational Education.
The main focus of the meeting was to enhance cooperation among all stakeholders involved in the training of future specialists for the mining and steelmaking sector. The participants discussed mechanisms for developing dual education, enhancing the role of workplace mentorship, and supporting the adaptation of young people to real working environments.
During the meeting, the participants discussed established practices of cooperation between employers, the municipal employment service, vocational education institutions, and Scientific and Methodological Centre for Vocational Education. This cooperation enables the development of specialists who meet the current needs of enterprises and the requirements of the labour market.
An important component of the Council’s work is the development of the mentorship system. It is mentors who help young people adapt more quickly in industrial settings, acquire professional skills, and embrace a culture of safe and efficient work.
Following the meeting, the participants supported the further implementation of dual education at enterprises in the mining and steelmaking sector and also approved the development of a psychological and pedagogical training programme and a roadmap for mentors. In addition, a workshop is scheduled for September 2026, dedicated to the implementation of new regulatory documents in the field of mentorship.
A highlight of the event was the announcement of the results of the review competition for the title “Best Workplace Mentor in Dual Education”. The participants announced a joint decision to honour the winners who made a significant contribution to the professional development of young employees and the strengthening of the enterprises’ human capital.
The best mentors were awarded diplomas and valuable prizes in recognition of their professionalism, responsibility, and willingness to share their knowledge and experience with young people.
“Our mentors teach more than a profession – they shape the future of our enterprises. Therefore, mentorship holds particular importance. Enterprises require not only skilled employees, but also an effective system for transferring knowledge, experience, and production values from the older generation to younger professionals. Mentors are precisely those who become young people’s first guides into the profession. They help not only to master production operations, but also to appreciate the value of teamwork, a responsible approach to work, and a strong commitment to safety. Thanks to their support, the adaptation of young employees takes place more quickly and effectively,” noted Liudmyla SOLOD, Head of Recruitment, Training and Personnel Development at Metinvest’s Consolidated iron Ore.
Oleksandr SHESTAKOV is regularly engaged as a mentor in the role of a rolling stock repair fitter. He is a Grade 6 fitter and possesses considerable experience despite his comparatively young age of 43.
Oleksandr works at one of the diesel locomotive depots of the Railway Transport Department at Northern Iron Ore and speaks of his mentors with great warmth:
“I have been a mentor since 2007 and truly love what I do. Talented young people from Ternivka Technical College, which I myself once graduated from, come to work with me. I always tell them: if you have the desire to learn, you will succeed – I will show you, teach you, and guide you. I remember that, at one time, I was also taught by experienced craftsmen to whom I am grateful, and therefore today I consider it my duty to help young people master the profession. No textbook can offer the depth of knowledge that is acquired through hands-on experience alongside a mentor. It is important to me that trainees feel confident asking questions, develop independent thinking, and recognise that quality outcomes cannot be achieved without a sense of responsibility. When you see yesterday’s trainee become a confident employee, you realise that your efforts have not been in vain."
Yuliia MOSUZENKO of the Railway Transport Department at Central iron Ore is engaged as a mentor for trainees in the profession of acceptance/delivery inspector.
“I have been a mentor for about six years now. During this time, I have trained more than five specialists. Working as a mentor, you come to understand how important it is to help a person take their first steps in the profession,” says Yuliia Andriiivna. “Young employees come with theoretical knowledge; our task is to teach them how to apply it in practice and to feel confident in the workplace. I enjoy working with trainees, observing their development and seeing the results of our joint efforts. The greatest reward for me is when a trainee becomes a competent specialist and a fully fledged member of the team. It is also very gratifying when, later on, your trainees call you, seek advice and thank you for your guidance."
“For Metinvest’s Iron Ore Plants, the development of dual education and the institution of mentorship represents an important investment in the future,” noted Andrii SHCHERBAK, HR and Social Affairs Director of Metinvest’s Consolidated Iron Ore. “We are committed to ensuring that young people see clear prospects for professional development and receive high-quality practical training, linking their future with the mining and steelmaking industry. Our mentors pass on to the younger generation truly unique production expertise, developed over many years, and help preserve continuity between generations at the iron ore plants. The awards received by the best mentors are well-deserved recognition of their work, professionalism and dedication to their role. It is precisely thanks to such people that we are able to develop future generations of strong professionals and ensure the sustainable development of our iron ore plants.”
