The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) will enable students of the Moldova State University (USM) to develop their skills and enrich their knowledge about refugees and the humanitarian effort at an optional course. The two institutions signed a Memorandum of understanding on the training of students in the protection of displaced people and the international refugee protection regime, IPN reports, quoting a press release of UNHCR Moldova.

“The people and the Government of the Republic of Moldova are examples of humanitarianism and solidarity with the refugees and the most vulnerable ones. Such noble sentiments, combined with skills and knowledge, are what the people and the humanitarian sector need,” said Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR Representative to Moldova.

In accordance with the Global Compact on Refugees, the UN refugee Agency aims to contribute resources and expertise to improving the quality and inclusion of the national educational system and to facilitating the access of refugee students and of students from host communities. “I’m eager to see more Moldovans working in international organizations, at the UN, or becoming future ambassadors of the Republic of Moldova in the fields of human rights and development,” stated Francesca Bonelli.

In cooperation with the UN Agency, USM will train future Moldovan professionals to cope with the pressing needs of refugees and to promote a more inclusive society in which the rights and dignity of refugees are respected.  “With the support of UNHCR, the young people who study law, journalism and social sciences can come in touch with over 75 years of knowledge and experience gained while working with refugees and displaced people,” said USM rector Igor Șarov.

Since the influx of refugees started, UNHCR has offered the Republic of Moldova assistance to the value of US$100 million. Of the over 800,000 Ukrainian refugees who entered Moldova, more than 100,000 are still here and 60% of these are women and girls, while 46% are children.