Digital transformation of hromadas: 30 managers from Odesa region to undergo IT training
A grant-based educational program for representatives of local communities has been launched in Odesa region. 30 participants were given the opportunity to receive free training in key digital competencies, from analytics to artificial intelligence. The initiative is implemented jointly by Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region and Hillel IT School.
“The Vylkove community has a unique resource – a city on the water, the center of the Danube Delta, tourist routes that attract visitors every year. However, there is often a lack of specialists, equipment, and understanding of how to properly digitalize the processes that could improve community promotion, tourism development, and attract investors and partners. Our team strives to actively implement the necessary actions, and this requires appropriate knowledge. I took the training to better navigate modern tools and help the community. In particular, to understand how to make online services more convenient, develop the website, work with analytics, promote tourism with the help of marketing tools, etc. I want to develop and grow, not just stay afloat,” said Yulia Marinova, First Deputy Mayor of the Vilkovo Territorial Community.
She will take the SMM course. The grant program involved 30 representatives from different communities in Odesa Oblast. They will be trained free of charge in five selected areas that form the basis of the digital competence of a modern manager.
Why do communities need this?
“Digitalization is not a whim, but a basic condition for the sustainable development of modern communities.
But technologies do not work by themselves. Their effectiveness directly depends on those who use them – managers, executives, communicators. It’s really good that there are enough high-quality online services and channels for easy communication with the authorities. But many people in communities are not yet very good at digital skills. In addition, there is an acute shortage of specialists with technical education who could be responsible for cyber defense and security of information systems. That’s why we want to work on this,” said most of the participants who took part in the grant
What exactly will the participants study?
- Data analytics – how to work with data to make decisions
- Artificial intelligence – how to use AI to increase efficiency
- SMM and communications – development of the community’s online presence
- Cybersecurity – how to protect information systems
- DevOps – optimization of IT processes in management
“Digital development is no longer a trend, but a necessity for the effective work of local governments. The level of digital competencies determines how quickly decisions are made, how transparent the processes are, and how convenient it is for citizens to receive services,” emphasizes Serhii Kononenko, Director of the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region.
All training costs are covered by Hillel IT School. The total investment in this program is about UAH 600,000.
“We see that in every city, community, and village there are people who are ready to change the system and introduce new things. Our task is to give them knowledge, support, and faith that digital Ukraine starts with everyone. Investing in education is always about investing in a strong state,” Vadym Drumov, CEO and co-founder of Hillel IT School
