The First Module of the Managers’ School Has Been Successfully Completed: Probation Managers Have Mastered the Basics of Modern Leadership

On 26 May, trainees completed the first module of the Probation Managers’ School. EU Project Pravo-Justice launched this training initiative to help heads of structural units at the State Probation Service develop leadership skills.

The first module on Fundamentals of Human Resource Management engaged 20 groups of managers from all regions of Ukraine. For a month, participants studied the basics of modern leadership, decision-making, management styles, and innovative thinking.

This training was delivered by Serhii Synohub, national expert at EU Project Pravo-Justice, David Knott, international expert at EU Project Pravo-Justice, and Yuliia Cherednyk, lead specialist in the Sector of Psychological Counselling and Innovation at the State Probation Service.

“The Managers’ School aims to equip managers with practical tools to help them effectively manage teams, make strategic decisions and foster positive change within the system. It is managers who create an environment enabling transformation,” said Serhii Synohub.

The module curriculum combined theoretical knowledge and practical tasks. In particular, participants explored the differences between leadership and management and learned how to achieve the most effective results by combining both approaches. The trainees analysed management styles and strategies in various organisational structures. The training also focused on inspiring teams, building trust, fostering employee development, and creating a value-based corporate culture. Participants practised systematic situation analysis and drew up effective decision-making scenarios. They learned about tools that help managers see the bigger picture, set strategic goals and adapt to change.

“Being a leader today means not only managing, but also inspiring people, thinking ahead, and effectively delegating responsibility. We emphasised that it is essential to combine leaders’ vision with administrative discipline. This very balance paves the way for change. We also focused on developing innovative thinking, which is crucial for managers during transformations in the probation system,” said David Knott.

Viktoriia Kliuch, head of the Human Resources Department at Probation Centre, stated that the Probation Managers’ School is a response to the need for systematic development of the institution’s management team.

“This training programme teaches managers how to build a healthy work environment, resolve conflicts, motivate their team, and develop an effective corporate culture. We have compiled a list of management skills our system needs and plan to keep developing them. I believe that the knowledge our teams gained will become a valuable tool in their daily work,” said Viktoriia Kliuch.

The training programme “Probation Managers’ School” consists of five modules. The second module, dedicated to staff selection and onboarding, started on 27 May. After this module, participants will explore motivation, staff development and conflict management. At the end of each module, participants will take a test. Once they have successfully completed the Probation Managers’ School, they will receive certificates.