Media Engagment

NRK Radio Features TURBO Project on 3rd Anniversary of the War in Ukraine

On February 24, 2025, Anatoli Bourmistrov and Veronika Vakulenko were invited to NRK Radio to present the latest results of the TURBO project. Short outline of the interview is presented below: 

What is the project about?

TURBO is an Erasmus capacity-building project funded by the EU (2024-2026) aimed at supporting Ukrainian universities in addressing the challenge of internal migration. The project is a collaboration between Nord University (HHN), Kozminsky University in Poland, the International Foundation of Social Adaptation, seven Ukrainian universities, and several NGOs.

Why is it important to retrain Ukrainian refugees and IDPs?

Due to the war, thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes, arriving in new communities without jobs or social networks. The project helps address this crisis by developing micro-courses tailored to local labor market demands, improving employability. Additionally, it provides psychological rehabilitation to foster a sense of security and hope for the future.

The broader impact of the project

Beyond assisting internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ukraine, the project highlights the evolving role of universities in addressing societal crises, such as increasing migration. It enables universities to build expertise in crisis response, particularly in facilitating the integration of migrants through education and professional training.

Progress and feedback so far

Throughout 2024, the project focused on assessing labor market needs, developing targeted courses, and ensuring quality assurance. Teaching is set to begin in February-March 2025. Since the first graduates will complete their courses in May-June 2025, it is still too early to assess employment outcomes, but results will be monitored to evaluate the effectiveness of the training programs.

Nord University’s role and long-term vision

Nord University has collaborated with Ukrainian institutions since 2003 and is among Norway’s most experienced actors in understanding Ukraine’s academic and institutional landscape. This experience was instrumental in shaping the project proposal, risk assessments, and strategic planning, which were well received by the EU Commission.

The project also provides valuable insights for Norway, helping develop strategies for integrating migrants and refugees. Rather than viewing migration as a financial burden, it should be seen as an investment in human resources that contribute to local economic and social development. Given the workforce shortages in Northern Norway, such initiatives are essential for sustainable community growth.