Prospects for the development of the light industry of Belarus were discussed at a meeting of the EKS in Vitebsk

At an off-site meeting of the Expert Advisory Council (EAC) under the Presidium of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus, held in Vitebsk under the leadership of the Chairperson of the Council of the Republic, Natalya Kochanova, issues of light industry development and proposals to enhance personnel training were discussed, as reported by a BELTA correspondent.

This is the sixth off-site meeting of the current convocation, and this time the central theme of discussion was the development of "Bellegprom" enterprises and the promotion of their products in both domestic and foreign markets. "Today, this is a strategic segment of our country's national economy. This sector comprises over 2,000 organizations employing more than 82,000 people. Most enterprises have been modernized, the system of inter-industry interaction is maintained, and export ties have been established with many countries. However, despite the developed production base, the domestic light industry faces certain difficulties. Our President pays special attention to this area, as evidenced by the budgetary support provided to the industry's enterprises for modernization and ensuring stable operation," noted Natalya Kochanova. The Chairperson of the "Bellegprom" concern, Tatyana Lugina, spoke about the situation in the industry. "Products of light industry enterprises are exported to 95 countries worldwide. Belarusian flax is the country's calling card and a global brand. Our textiles and knitwear are a recognized mark of quality. Furthermore, light industry enterprises are addressing import substitution issues. Over 10 months, positive results have been achieved in the "Bellegprom" concern's economy. Industrial production has grown by 6%, revenue from sales by 14.3%, and net profit has increased 2.8-fold, amounting to Br260 million," said the head of the concern. At the same time, the personnel issue in the light industry system is one of the top priorities, as some enterprises lack specialists and workers. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that students in vocational schools acquire several unrelated professions, such as seamstress and hairdresser. Although this is done to enhance the competitiveness of young specialists in the labor market, it leads to a shortage of personnel for light industry enterprises, as, after mandatory work placement, novice employees leave for the service sector in pursuit of easy money. Natalya Kochanova noted that personnel training for this industry should be conducted

where conditions permit – equipment, qualified specialists, and a strong scientific base. She also emphasized the need to consider a new system for training specialists in several related professions, which would offer career growth prospects for young people.

Regarding VSTU, enrollment in technical specialties is based not only on the needs of the region and the country but also on the demand from applicants for engineering professions. The university's rector, Andrey Kuznetsov, noted that for more effective work, the university needs to acquire modern equipment, which, along with the university's strong scientific schools, will enhance the training of highly qualified personnel.

Heads of enterprises within the "Bellegprom" system outlined their operational strategies. For instance, the Orsha Flax Mill has launched a pilot project to sell its products through an online store, which will facilitate deliveries to remote regions of Russia. A crucial element for the enterprise's successful operation is corporate spirit and the directors' attitude towards their staff. Participants of the meeting discussed forms of staff retention, such as social guarantees, joint events to unite different generations of workers, and the construction of new housing for young specialists.

Summarizing the speakers' presentations, Natalya Kochanova highlighted the importance of cooperation between enterprises, universities, vocational colleges, and schools for the development of the light industry. "To spark children's interest in the professions you need in your enterprises, you must tell schoolchildren about them. Go to schools; career guidance work should start there," the speaker emphasized.

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