Attracting and Retaining Young Workforce in Rural Areas Discussed at Kazan Agro-2026
A roundtable discussion on the topic of "The Future in the Village: How to Inspire Young People to Choose Rural Life" was held on the sidelines of the Kazan Agro-2026 specialized agricultural exhibition. The discussion, which brought together representatives of government, science, business, and youth organizations, focused on finding effective strategies to inspire the next generation to choose rural life and careers. Particular attention was paid to practical mechanisms for implementing the federal project "Personnel in the Agricultural Sector" and the national project "Technological Support for Food Security."
The roundtable participants emphasized that addressing the labor shortage requires a comprehensive approach. The Head of the Department of Science, Education, and Innovative Technologies of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the Republic of Tatarstan emphasized the need to create attractive conditions for urban graduates willing to commit their lives to rural areas.
Acting Rector of Kazan State Agrarian University, Ilshat Nuriyev, supported this idea, stating that it is young specialists who will ensure the prosperity of our villages and fields.
Milyausha Zagidullina presented the successful experience of the Youth Agrarian Association of Tatarstan, whose projects, including international forums and regional events, are already demonstrating their effectiveness in engaging rural youth.
Acting Rector of Kazan State Agrarian University, Ilshat Nuriyev, supported this idea, stating that it is young specialists who will ensure the prosperity of our villages and fields.
Farida Nezhmetdinova, Head of the Center for Strategic Planning and Public Relations at Kazan State Agrarian University, noted that modern education must prepare a new type of professional, ready to work in the agriculture of tomorrow.
Next, Irina Ivshina, Head of the Personnel Assessment, Training, and Development Department at KOMOS GROUP, spoke about the company's human resources management system. Through a seamless training process, the company helps newcomers quickly settle in and grow professionally.
Olga Lukina, Head of Training and HR Development at Chistopolye Holding Company, then shared her experience building a comprehensive training system, from school to professional growth within the company, which creates a so-called "personnel bridge."
In addition to educational and financial measures, the roundtable participants noted the importance of developing rural infrastructure as a factor directly impacting the comfort and attractiveness of rural life. Ilshat Shaidullin, HR Director at the Food Program agro-industrial complex, highlighted this aspect as a priority.
Stella Khalikova-Brundukova, investor and head of the Kukmorchanka peasant farm, demonstrated her successful experience implementing modern HR management methods, engaging representatives of different generations into a unified workforce.
Gumer Latypov and Dilyara Latypova, veterinarians at M.M. Latypov's private farm, shared their experience in training young professionals, creating a comfortable environment for self-fulfillment in livestock farming.
Nursultan Naurzbayev, Executive Director of the Financial Technology Development Center at Rosselkhozbank, emphasized the availability of financial support tools for aspiring farmers, providing a starting point for successful business projects.
In conclusion, the roundtable participants expressed a unanimous opinion about the great potential of agriculture in Tatarstan and throughout Russia, assuring that the future of rural areas is bright and promising thanks to the initiative and professionalism of the young generation.