UNHCR and the Moldova State University sign a Memorandum of Understanding to Educate Students on Forced Displacement Issues and Refugee Advocacy
© UNHCR/Salahaldeen Abdulrahman
Chisinau, 11, April 2023 – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency and the Moldova State University (USM) signed a memorandum of understanding in which by it both parties solidify their commitment to educating students about the challenges of forced displacement and international refugee protection regime. UNHCR will support developing and offering an elective course, which would provide students with an opportunity to learn more about UNHCR’s mandate. Furthermore, UNHCR will avail opportunities for students to expand their skills and knowledge about refugees and humanitarian action through on-job and field training, given the students meet the agency’s eligibility criteria.
Strengthening students’ understanding of UNHCR’s mandate and forced displacement issues
Founded in 1946, The Moldova State University (USM) over time built an impeccable reputation at the national and international levels. Its creation constituted a basic pillar for the development and consolidation of higher education in the country. The Moldova State University represents the space where academic freedom is promoted. The university encourages pluralism of opinions, and creativity while ensuring quality higher education and research.
“We aim to equip future Moldovan professionals with the knowledge and skills to handle the pressing needs of refugees and to promote a more inclusive society. By working together, we can ensure that the rights and dignity of refugees are upheld, and their contributions to society are recognized and valued.” Igor Șarov, Rector of the Moldova State University “With the support of UNHCR students who study law, journalism, and social science can get in touch with over 75 years of accumulated knowledge and experience in working with refugees, and displaced people”.
Offering opportunities for training and internships
By offering these opportunities, UNHCR aims to increase the engagement of students with the needs of refugees and host communities, while also providing them with insights into pursuing careers in the humanitarian field. This initiative is vital in raising awareness and promoting advocacy for forced displacement issues.
“Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Moldovan people and Government are a great example of humanitarianism and solidarity with refugees and the most vulnerable,” Said Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR Representative “Such noble sentiments, combined with knowledge and skill is what the world and the humanitarian sector needs. This cooperation comes in line with the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) and our commitment to contribute resources and expertise to enhance the quality and inclusiveness of the national educational system and facilitate access for refugee and host community students. I am looking forward to seeing more Moldovans working in international organizations, the UN, or becoming the future ambassadors of Moldova in the fields of human rights and development”.
This activity follows UNHCR’s commitment to supporting the Government of Moldova to strengthen its emergency preparedness and social protection capacities to ensure refugees’ safe and legal stay in the country.
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UNHCR and the Moldova State University sign a Memorandum of Understanding to Educate Students on Forced Displacement Issues and Refugee Advocacy
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