A professional training course for hairdressers
is taking place in Gori based on the main principle of dual education, work-related
learning.

A total of twelve participants undergo a theoretical part at the public college “Gantiadi” (teacher: Maka Totladze) and enjoy
practical sessions at the local beauty and esthetic center “Beauty Art” (head
of practice: Sophia Bartia).

“The project is a great opportunity for the
employer as it is always difficult to find good professionals. In the nearest
future, I am planning to hire additional staff and of course, I prefer to
choose persons trained at our salon. While teaching you can see their skills,
motivation, and potential,” explained Teona Lapachi, owner of “Beauty Art.”

After completion of the vocational 300-hour
course, graduates will participate in a paid three-month internship at various
beauty salons in Gori.

“I definitely want to use the chance this
project gave me to become a professional hairdresser. I’m from the village
Dirbi and I would like to open a beauty salon there at some point. The gained
knowledge will surely help me to increase my income,“ said Sophie Emanulidze, one
of the confident and happy course participants.

The hairdressers’ program is implemented as part
of the EU-funded project “EU4Youth – Enhancing Youth Education, Employment and
Participation in Conflict-affected Areas in Georgia and Ukraine.” The
initiative aims to widen education, employment, and entrepreneurial
opportunities for internally displaced persons and conflict-affected youth and
encourages their significant participation in the community. In Georgia, it is
implemented by the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) and the Education Development
and Employment Center (EDEC).