As part of the Professionalitet federal programme, a chemical education and production cluster has opened at the Verkhnedneprovsky Technological College (VTC) with financial support from Dorogobuzh (a member of Acron Group).
The Company has invested over RUB 100 million in upgrades to VTC under its long-standing fruitful cooperation with the Smolensk regional administration.
Smolensk region’s Minister of Education and Science Dina Khnycheva praised the cluster’s importance for the region, the municipal district and the chemical industry. She also wished the students success in their studies and professional development and expressed hope that they would soon play a part in shaping the history of the Company and their hometowns.
‘VTC’s example demonstrates the changes in the format and nature of secondary vocational education in our region. As can be seen from the number of employer-sponsored education agreements concluded with first-year students, the focus has shifted towards training highly qualified specialists to meet the specific needs and requirements of industrial partners. We are deeply grateful to Dorogobuzh’s management and employees, as well as everyone involved in this momentous event’, said Ms Khnycheva.
Dorogobuzh’s Executive Director Roman Dmitriev said, ‘Over the year, the funds received from Dorogobuzh have been used to overhaul the facade of VTC’s academic building, replace the roof, communication networks and fire alarms, equip the sports hall, carry out landscaping work and construct a basketball court. Dorogobuzh has also donated a two-storey building, where VTC will train welders, electricians and maintenance technicians. The building, currently under repairs, will house equipped workshops’.
Over 470 students, including 125 freshmen, are studying for in-demand qualifications at VTC. Half of those admitted have already signed employer-sponsored education agreements with Dorogobuzh, the town’s largest employer. These agreements guarantee internships, employment and workplace adaptation under the guidance of experienced mentors. The Company has sponsored the education of over 300 vocational students–the largest number in the region.