Forty-four refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh have successfully completed confectionery and sewing training at the French-Armenian Vocational Education Center (CEPFA). The trainings, organized by the UNDP within the framework of the “Support to Refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh and Host Communities” project, funded by the Government of France, culminated today in a certificate award ceremony.

The two-month free courses in pastry making and sewing aimed at  helping participants develop their professional skills and capacities, enabling them to find employment or establish their own businesses in the future.

A total of 44 refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh took part in the courses and completed the 108-hour vocational program.

During the pastry course examination, participants were given a random recipe to prepare a dessert. The professional jury evaluated all participants by tasting and assessing the appearance, cleanliness, correct use of ingredients, and presentation of the final product. In the sewing course examination, participants were tasked with sewing a cuff and a collar. The professional jury assessed the technique, cleanliness, and final appearance of the work.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, French Ambassador Decottignies highlighted the importance of the project in refugee integration: “There are already a lot of different specialties that are taught in this center.  What is for sure is that this center, which is supported by French decentralized cooperation, will remain very committed to helping refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh in Armenia.” 

Natia Natsvlishvili, UNDP Resident Representative emphasized the broader impact of the initiative on refugee livelihoods: “This project targets strengthening livelihoods and resilience of refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh. We are grateful that the French decentralized cooperation has allocated resources so that we could support the college and bring in 44 refugees and support them with the trainings in the culinary and fashion.”

By equipping refugees with practical skills, this initiative contributes to social inclusion and fosters sustainable livelihood opportunities for displaced families and their host communities.