Ukraine

In 2021/2022, the Bildungswerk der Sächsischen Wirtschaft (bsw) carried out a partnership project in Ukraine together with the Ukrainian industry association UKRLEGPROM and the Association of the North-East German Textile and Clothing Industry (vti). The aim was to support UKRLEGPROM in developing needs-based training and consulting services for its member companies – particularly in the areas of exportability, sustainability and production modernisation.

Initial situation and objectives

The project started under stable conditions, but faced enormous challenges when war broke out in February 2022. Despite the changed situation, the project was flexibly adapted and successfully continued. The focus remained on strengthening the Ukrainian textile industry and enabling the association to support its member companies with practical offers.

Key measures

• Planning and strategy workshops in Kiev with companies, educational institutions and chambers
• Training courses and online workshops on topics such as export promotion, sustainability, certification requirements, support programmes, labour law and tax regulations under martial law
• Individual consultations for over 30 companies, particularly on production security, logistics, import regulations and spare parts procurement
• Establishment of an advisory centre at UKRLEGPROM
• Hybrid regional workshops, including on restoring business activities in the severely affected Chernihiv region

Results

Despite the adverse circumstances, UKRLEGPROM was able to establish and expand its advisory structures. Employees were trained in the spirit of ‘supported learning by doing’ so that they could respond quickly and practically to the requirements of the companies. Initial network structures with German partners were established and approaches to sustainable textile production were conveyed.

Prospects

The project has demonstrated that international economic cooperation can be effective even in times of crisis. A possible continuation of the project could deepen the network building that has already begun, align companies even more closely with the European market, and contribute to Ukraine's economic stabilisation – also with a view to future EU integration.

The bsw is ready to continue on this path together with its partners.

Project promoter: Bildungswerk der Sächsischen Wirtschaft (bsw)

Local partner: Ukrainian Association of Textile & Leather Industry (UKRLEGPROM)

Duration: 10 months (2021/2022)