Last week, ASB welcomed Mr. Bernd Ilg, ASB Desk Officer for the Caucasus and Deputy Head of Foreign Aid at ASB Headquarters, to Armenia for a field visit focused on reviewing the progress and impact of activities implemented under the ELSI Project (Empowerment of Refugees and Host Communities: Improving Employability and Active Support for Sustainable Integration).

During his visit, Mr. Ilg joined the ASB Armenia team on field missions to the Ararat and Vayots Dzor regions, where project activities are being implemented in close cooperation with local partners and vocational education institutions.

The visit provided an opportunity to observe firsthand how the project supports vulnerable populations through skills development and employability initiatives. Mr. Ilg visited several vocational education and training (VET) institutions offering courses in make-up artistry, cooking, dressmaking, and accountancy. These training opportunities are designed to enhance participants’ professional skills, improve their employment prospects, and support their long-term socio-economic integration.

A key highlight of the visit was the opportunity to meet directly with project beneficiaries. Through conversations with trainees and graduates, Mr. Ilg learned about their personal journeys, the knowledge and skills they have acquired through the programme, and their aspirations for the future. Beneficiaries shared how participation in the training courses has strengthened their confidence, expanded their career opportunities, and helped them take meaningful steps toward greater self-reliance.

The field visit also served as an important opportunity to engage with project partners, discuss implementation progress, and reflect on lessons learned and future priorities. These exchanges reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts in supporting refugees and host communities through sustainable, community-based solutions.

The ELSI Project continues to contribute to improved livelihoods and social inclusion by providing practical skills, fostering economic participation, and creating pathways toward sustainable integration for refugees and vulnerable members of host communities in Armenia.

ASB remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen resilience, promote self-reliance, and create lasting opportunities for those most in need.