Author: Viktória Žitňanová Nagyová
In May, as a representative of the creative sector, I participated in a regional workshop as part of the x-Inno Radar project, which is being implemented in the Košice Region by Creative Industry Košice. The workshop was not just a meeting of experts. It was an experimental space where representatives of various sectors came together to jointly create a concept for a strategy for the development of soft skills in our region. It was also a pilot activity of a pan-European project that connects industrial regions across Central Europe to jointly seek solutions to the challenges of digital, ecological, and social transformation.
Technology versus humanity
Like many other old industrial regions, the Košice region is facing a fundamental transformation. The transition to a digital and green economy requires not only technical know-how, but also something deeper and more personal. Soft skills. Creativity, empathy, the ability to collaborate, think strategically and manage change are becoming essential complements to technical skills. It is these skills that make us capable of creating innovative and sustainable solutions. The x-Inno Radar project therefore aims to systematically map, develop and integrate these skills into regional development strategies.
Linking communities, business and the public sector
The workshop was attended by people from the business community, public administration, education, the cultural sector, and community work. Each group perceived important skills slightly differently. While entrepreneurs emphasized the importance of cooperation and effective decision-making, people from the community sphere highlighted emotional intelligence and empathy. This cross-sector comparison revealed a fundamental common ground. We all feel the need to strengthen trust, open communication, and the ability to work in change. A common language and shared values have proven to be key to building a functional ecosystem in the region.
What happens after the workshop
As part of the x-Inno Radar project, a new training program called Creative Industry Košice is being developed. Its goal is to develop so-called human skills, such as empathy, strategic thinking, the ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and respond flexibly to new situations in a rapidly changing world. The program will focus primarily on people and organizations that come into direct contact with innovation and play an important role in spreading new approaches in the region. It will also include a phase of training for future trainers, enabling participants to acquire skills that they can further develop in their work and community environments.
Another key output is an initiative dedicated to bringing talent back to the region. It focuses on involving experts from the Košice region who are currently working abroad or in larger cities. The aim is to create a database of people willing to share their experience, mentor or collaborate on innovative activities in the region. Although this is often short-term or remote contact, this form of networking can contribute significantly to the development of the region.
Why is this important
Soft skills can no longer be seen as a supplement to expertise. They are fundamental to successfully navigating the transition to a new economy and play a key role in adapting to the changes brought about by modern times. In the context of the growing role of artificial intelligence, climate challenges and overall accelerated transformation, it is essential that regions are able not only to respond but also to proactively shape their future. The ability to connect different areas, engage in constructive dialogue, work with uncertainty, and build trust is as important today as investing in technology.
The workshop in Košice showed that when professional know-how is combined with openness and cooperation between sectors, space is created for new ideas, meaningful growth and real social change. I am convinced that it is precisely this interconnection between professions, generations and levels of governance that holds the potential to move our region forward.
The project is supported by the Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE program with co-financing from the European Regional Development Fund.
