AUB News

On 24 May 2024, Kyiv hosted the forum ‘Youth - the foundation of human capital and recovery of Ukraine’, where representatives of business, government agencies and youth organisations gathered to discuss ways to integrate young people into various sectors of the economy. Forum partners: National Democratic Institute, IREX, Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Ukraine, and the U.S.-Ukraine Business Council (USUBC).

The main topics included interaction with business, attracting young people to industrial, financial and other promising sectors, as well as current trends in the labour market. Particular attention was drawn to the participation of the Association of Ukrainian Banks, which presented its views and recommendations on attracting young professionals to the banking sector.

The importance of cooperation with young people

Andriy Dubas, President of the Association of Ukrainian Banks, stressed that current realities, including the impact of the pandemic and full-scale invasion, have significantly changed the requirements for education and training of young people. He noted that many students were unable to attend classes physically, which affected the quality of education.

‘Among banking institutions, we are experiencing a staff shortage,’ Dubas said. ‘If we talk about attracting young people to branches, it is a simpler story because there are many things that can be taught there. However, the head office requires a deeper knowledge of regulations, procedures and legislation.’

‘Staff shortage’ and new opportunities

Dubas also noted that the banking sector offers numerous opportunities for young professionals who are ready to work both in front offices and in the central offices of banks. The EBA is actively working to help young people adapt to market demands and develop the necessary skills.

‘We are pleased to be a member of the large global community of the US-Ukraine Business Council and to cooperate with international partners to implement the latest practices and standards in the banking sector,’ he added.

Prospects for young people

The forum also discussed promising areas for youth employment. Dubas pointed out that young people should pay attention to dual education programmes and retraining opportunities, which are being actively developed in cooperation with business.

‘Young people should be ready for change and continuous learning. The legislation now allows for retraining and confirmation of qualifications, which opens up new opportunities for career growth,’ he said.

The Forum stressed the importance of actively engaging young people in various sectors of the economy and adapting businesses to the new requirements of young workers. Cooperation between youth, business and government agencies is key to Ukraine's future recovery and development.

In particular, the forum has become an important platform for discussing ways to integrate young people into various sectors of the economy, including the banking sector. The participation of the Association of Ukrainian Banks underlined the importance of this area for the country's future development. The emphasis on education, retraining and adaptation to new working conditions are key to a successful career for young Ukrainians in the banking sector.

A video recording of the forum is  posted here.