Traditionally, the program is designed for those young individuals who are seeking public sector careers. However, this program is different. First of all, it targets representatives of the regional level of the country’s administration. As in many other emerging economies, in Ukraine managerial talent is often drained to the capital city. It often leaves regions without appropriate human resource thus impeding the development of the regions. Moreover, the decentralization reform which is being implemented calls for young public servants ready to work for the prosperity of their home towns. MIM-Kyiv’s program is its contribution to overall national development.
Secondly, the program is delivered on-line. It has become possible due to the distance learning delivery mode which MIM-Kyiv previously employed on some of its courses but now temporarily switched to because of the national lockdown caused by the COVID-19. On-line delivery mode allowed to cut down the cost of the program and to expand its geographic outreach.
Thirdly, the program is fairly concise. It covers the essentials of business and public administration taught by MIM-Kyiv faculty, public servants who have been implementing structural reforms and business practitioners. Graduates of the 2015-2017 MBA in PA, the initial public administration program of the GNR.Next project, will be mentoring the new students.
The new program is for the university degree holders who are 24 – 38 years old and have a working knowledge of English. Upon completion of the program, the graduates are supposed to work in the public sector for at least a year.
The admission process was tough. Only half of applicants were selected. “It was critical to identify those individuals who will contribute to the structural reform of the country. It is vital to facilitate the dialogue between public and private sectors and bridge the gap in mutual understanding of those two pillars of society,” said Prof. Iryna Tykhomyrova, MIM-Kyiv President. “We expect you to work for the public sector for the year. I know first-hand that regional authorities are looking for the right people to join their efforts. You will have a lot of opportunities to put your knowledge to practice,” Mr. Korogodsky said to the new learners. “We are all happy to welcome you here at MIM-Kyiv. We hope that you will not only apply your knowledge and skills but also become members of our true friendly community,” Prof. Tykhomyrova said.