The Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova, Ambassador Philip Remler, launched an OSCE-supported project helping over 80 former army, police and border guard officers retrain for civilian professions. The ceremony of launching the project took place at the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova. The event was organized by the project’s implementing partners: the Academy’s Center for Economic Development and Public Affairs, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Moldova. The first courses in information technology, management of small and medium enterprises, real estate evaluation and foreign languages will begin on 15 September and will be attended by 84 former officers of the National Army, Border Guard Service and Carabineer Troops. “The start of civilian life can be a challenge to those who have been with the military for their entire career. But military officers are dedicated and disciplined; they are excellent team players and confident team leaders. The government of Moldova has taken steps to utilize these talents in civilian society. The OSCE Mission is happy to contribute,” Philip Remler said at the opening ceremony. The Chairperson of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Moldova, Gheorghe Cucu, said the project is very timely and useful for the entire society, as the former officers will be able to find better jobs and the companies will have qualified staff. In addition to the academic lectures, the participants will receive advice on preparation of job applications and resumes. They will be coached on job interview techniques and will participate in specially organized job fairs. “Modern economy and social development require competitive professional training, and we are happy to contribute to better social inclusion and adaptation of the ex-military persons,” said the Rector of the Academy of Economic Science of Moldova, Professor Grigore Belostecinic, at the opening ceremony. The project was developed in close co-operation between the OSCE Mission to Moldova and the Ministry of Defense of Moldova, and funded by extra-budgetary contributions from the United States and Sweden.