Virumaa College Training Project Proved That It Is Never Too Late to Learn

On 13 December 2025, the Silverskill (Hõbetalent) training programme concluded at TalTech’s Virumaa College. This year-and-a-half-long journey brought together people aged over 50 from Ida-Viru County who wished to strengthen their position in the labour market, develop entrepreneurial skills, and gain confidence in navigating the rapid changes of the digital age.

The aim of Silverskill was to enhance the competitiveness of older adults in employment and entrepreneurship by offering a free Estonian-language training programme combining personal development, entrepreneurship, digital skills, communication, and mentoring. The programme consisted of eight modules and provided participants with both practical knowledge and an opportunity to take an honest look at themselves and their future choices.

Not Just a Training Programme, but a Community

The project began in October 2024 with a launch event at the Kohtla-Järve Cultural Centre, attended by nearly 50 interested participants. Discussions revealed that in addition to practical skills, participants highly valued self-confidence, the courage to adapt to change, and the opportunity to belong to a supportive community.

“Today’s labour market requires constant adaptation, and digital skills and environmental awareness are areas where even experienced people can further strengthen their advantages,” emphasised project manager Marianne Kama. In her assessment, the programme clearly demonstrated that when people are given the right tools and a safe learning environment, they are ready to take even very bold steps.

Anneki Teelahk, Head of the Virumaa Department of the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund, who spoke at the launch event, highlighted that older people often face prejudice and rapid change in the labour market. “At the same time, they have enormous value – life experience, a sense of responsibility, and the ability to see the bigger picture. Initiatives like Hõbetalent are essential for the region,” Teelahk stressed.

From Self-Definition to the Courage to Act

The training programme began with a self-definition module in which participants analysed their strengths, fears, and future aspirations. For many, this module laid the foundation for very practical decisions in their subsequent lives and ventures.

Participant Arvi Pärs joined the programme with several clear goals: to better understand his strengths, develop entrepreneurial skills, and acquire knowledge about IT and the application of artificial intelligence. He is a micro-producer of renewable energy and was looking for ways to make smart business use of surplus energy from his 15 kW solar power plant.

“The training helped me view my activities in a much more systematic way. Self-analysis was essential – I gained a clearer understanding of where it makes sense to focus my time and energy,” Pärs explained.

Learning Quickly Put into Practice

According to participants, one of Silverskills greatest strengths was its practical orientation. Arvi Pärs has already begun to purposefully apply the knowledge gained during and after the training.

He uses smart devices, such as thermostat-controlled sockets, to heat his production space in order to use electricity as efficiently as possible. He has also incorporated artificial intelligence tools, including ChatGPT, into his daily activities.

The marketing and communication module also played an important role. “I prepared a mini marketing and communication plan and have already implemented it in promoting my products,” Pärs said. He produces dried pumpkin sweets, and more deliberate marketing activities have already increased their visibility and sales.

Looking ahead, he has clear plans: “During the summer period, I want to develop new horticultural products using inexpensive electricity. Now I know how to think this through from an entrepreneurial perspective.”

Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

The experience of another participant, Age Merirand, also confirms that Silverskill primarily acted as a catalyst for inner change. For her, the most valuable training sessions were those that pushed her out of her comfort zone.

“I broadened my horizons and discovered a great deal about myself – how and why I have become the person I am,” Merirand said. According to her, the impact of the training does not always become visible immediately, but she applies what she has learned in everyday life, even if only in small steps.

The Impact of Silverskill

Although the Silverskill programme has formally concluded, the stories of the participants suggest that its real impact is only just beginning. In addition to a certificate from TalTech’s Virumaa College, graduates gained self-confidence, new contacts, and skills that are already being applied both in entrepreneurship and in everyday life.

Silveskill is a clear example of how a targeted and carefully designed training project can change attitudes and give people confidence that age is not an obstacle but a value. The experience of Ida-Viru County clearly shows that it is never too late to learn and grow.