Slovakia’s Upper Nitra region is undergoing a significant transformation, as lignite mining and coal-fired energy production come to an end. With the industry officially phased out by the end of 2023, many workers in the region have been left without jobs and are facing an uncertain future.
The role of the Just Transition Fund
A new initiative funded by the Just Transition Fund (JTF) aims to offer these workers a lifeline by equipping them with the skills needed for new opportunities in a rapidly evolving labour market.
The programme, ‘Preparing the workforce for new applications in the labour market’, focuses on employees from the Upper Nitra mine in Prievidza and the Electric Power Plants in Nováky.
Facing uncertainty after decades in mining
Many of these workers are entering an unfamiliar world after decades in mining. Some have been employed in the industry for 20 to 30 years, often in positions of responsibility, yet they have never attended a job interview or needed to consider their broader skill set.
For some, their identity is deeply tied to mining – many even attended mining schools from a young age, following in the footsteps of parents and grandparents.
Reinventing professional and personal identity
The project begins by offering each participant a comprehensive evaluation to help them identify their strengths, skills, and potential areas for development. With the guidance of experienced tutors and career counsellors, workers receive personalised support to adapt to the job market and explore new career paths.
This includes everything from how to write a CV or cover letter, to tips on navigating job interviews, to exploring new professions such as electricians, barbers, and installers of photovoltaics and solar panels.
Viliam Druga, who worked for 6 years in the Power Plant in Novaky, shares his experience: ‘When I started the course, I was surprised to discover everything you need when applying for a job. Nobody had ever discussed it with me like this before, but we went through everything.’
For many, the project represents not just a new career, but the reinvention of their professional and personal identity. The support offered is designed to help these workers see the value in the skills they’ve gained over the years – such as leadership, safety management, and technical expertise – and how these can be applied in new and growing sectors.
A model for a just transition
By preparing workers for new roles, this project serves as a model for a just transition – showing that with the right support, communities can transform economic challenges into opportunities for growth and renewal.
Project details
- Project name
- Supporting employability in the Upper Nitra region II
- Zemlje
- Slovakia
- Organizacija
- Trencin self-governing region
- Sudionici
- 763
- Project start
- 2023
- Project end
- 2025
- Internet and social
- Contact details
- Ing. Andrea Fraňová
andrea.franova@tsk.sk
00421901 918 176 - Total budget
- EUR 12 200 000
- EU Budget contribution
- EUR 14 400 000