Fifty two new Peace Corps volunteers have been sworn in today, August 16. They arrived in Moldova on June 7 and underwent intensive training to become English and Health Education teachers, as well as Community and Organizational development advisers over the next two years. They also started learning Romanian and Russian, IPN reports.
Today, they swore to serve alongside the Moldovan people and to share their culture “with creativity, cultural sensitivity and respect”.
The volunteers will live and work in five regions of the country, including Balti, Ialoveni and Cahul. They will be hosted by local families. Local partners will help them adapt to the specifics of life in Moldova.
US Ambassador James D. Pettit told the volunteers that this challenge is not an easy one and the change they are fostering in society might be slow, but it’s a worthy task and they should not give up. “The future of this country depends on the opportunities we can offer for young people to achieve success. The education system, regional centers and community organizations need volunteers that can contribute new prospects for the development of youth”, said the diplomat.
Tracey Hebert-Seck, Country Director for Peace Corps Moldova, thanked the local partners for their cooperation and the volunteers for their dedication and desire to bring change to communities in Moldova. She told the volunteers that being part of the Moldovan community is a privilege. “Now it’s the moment to show that you are the best at providing support to the Moldovan people and communities”, said Hebert-Seck.
Peace Corps currently has 49 volunteers serving in Moldova working in four projects: Small Enterprise Development, Community and Organizational Development, English Education and Health Education. With this week’s additions, the number will grow to 101 volunteers.
The Peace Corps was founded on March 1, 1961. Today, there are 9095 volunteers working with local communities in 75 countries. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment and the agency’s mission is to promote world peace and friendship and a better understanding between Americans and people of other countries.
