Edik Tatintsyan / Agricultural Machinery / Goris Multifunctional State College
When I was deciding on my career, one thing was clear to me: in Syunik, there is a significant shortage of specialists in agricultural mechanization. Our region is predominantly agricultural, yet very few professionals work with modern machinery. Observing that the number of applicants in this field was also small motivated me even further – if there are few specialists, the sector is waiting for us.
Before enrolling in the DUAL education program under the MAVETA project, I had never heard of it. However, hands-on training completely transformed my understanding of education.
At Norayr Davtyan’s farm in Verishen, I was not just an observer but an active participant. Every process started with a brief theoretical overview, followed by practical application. We disassembled, reassembled, analyzed, and repeated tasks until full mastery was achieved. From safety protocols to time management, every skill was acquired in a real working environment.
Because textbooks were often outdated, practical experience filled that critical gap. I gained not only technical skills but also competencies in client communication, work planning, and time management.
The outcome speaks for itself
Today, I am not only confident in my professional abilities but also have an actual business initiative. Within the MAVETA project, I participated in the “Farming as a Business” training, developed a beekeeping business plan, and was selected to receive technical support. This has allowed me to expand and manage my own bee colonies successfully. Most importantly, I have already started selling my own honey – turning knowledge into real income and proving that my business idea works in practice.
I am also proud to have served as a MAVETA Ambassador, representing the program and sharing my experience with peers. Being part of MAVETA has not only given me knowledge but also instilled a sense of pride, responsibility, and motivation to contribute to the development of agriculture in Syunik.
DUAL education was far more than traditional training. It equipped me with the skills, confidence, and mindset necessary to enter the labor market and take action immediately.
Would I recommend DUAL education to other young people?
Absolutely. In fact, I believe every profession should adopt DUAL. When theoretical knowledge is applied directly through hands-on practice, it transforms into skill – and skill builds confidence.
If I were to summarize my experience in a single sentence: MAVETA Project provided me not only with knowledge but also with the readiness and confidence to create tangible value in my profession.
The MAVETA project is funded by a broad coalition of international and local organizations led by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), including the Austrian Development Agency, the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Government of Armenia, the Swiss Church Aid (HEKS/EPER) NGO, Izmirlian Foundation, the Strategic Development Agency (SDA) NGO and Vanand Agro CJSC.
The project’s implementing partners are the GIZ and HEKS/EPER with the involvement of SDA and the School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences at the Bern University of Applied Sciences (HAFL).