OSCE Mission to Moldova helps former military officers transition to civilian life
CHISINAU, 22 December 2010 – Moldovan former officers and warrant officers today graduated from a course at the Moldovan Academy of Economic Studies held as part of an OSCE Mission to Moldova project to help former military and security officers make the transition to civilian life.
The course, the first of its kind, and today's graduation ceremony were organized by a consortium comprising the Moldovan Chamber of Commerce and the Centre for Economic Development and Public Affairs of the Academy of Economic Studies.
The 74 former officers and warrant officers of the National Army, Carabineri and the Border Guard Service who successfully completed the course received certificates during the graduation ceremony.
The Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova, Ambassador Philip Remler, Defence Minister Vitalie Marinuta, representatives of the Interior Ministry and the Ministry of Labour, Family and Social Protection, as well as the President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gheorghe Cucu, and the Rector of the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova, Grigore Belostecinic, took part in the graduation ceremony.
Congratulating the students on their achievements, Remler said: “You graduates are an example of the kind of effort that Moldova is making to take full advantage of the talents of its population. As you progress into civilian life, you are not only helping your families; you are also helping your country prosper.”
The course graduates completed studies in information technology, management of small and medium enterprises, real estate evaluation or English language. A job fair to be held at the Academy of Economic Studies in February will enable the graduates to meet potential employers.
The social reintegration project wasdeveloped through close co-operation between the OSCE Mission to Moldova and the Defence Ministry. The United States and Sweden are financing the project.
The second course is due to start on 22 February 2011.