Between September and December 2025, UNFPA Moldova, with the support of the Government of the United Kingdom, piloted three innovative micro-qualification programs aimed at empowering women in vulnerable situations. Implemented in collaboration with AO Prodidactica, the initiative brought together 45 women—39 refugees from Ukraine and 6 from the local community—creating a supportive space for learning, solidarity, and professional growth.
The programs focused on practical vocational skills in cooking, sewing, and hairdressing, marking the first adult continuing education initiative of its kind in the Republic of Moldova. Participants received tailored sets of professional tools and hands-on training, preparing them to enter the labor market quickly or launch their own economic ventures. These micro-qualification courses not only enhanced professional skills but also boosted confidence, financial independence, and social integration.
Oksana Suleima, a Ukrainian refugee participant, shared her experience: “In Moldova, I had the chance to learn a new trade and regain confidence in myself. With the support of the people here, I found the courage to start over, and after completing the course, I am set to work in a local café in Dondușeni, where I have already received a job offer.”
Developed in collaboration with technical vocational education institutions (VET) and certified by the Ministry of Education and Research, the programs are aligned with international standards for gender-based violence prevention and UNFPA’s broader humanitarian response. By providing professional training and fostering economic autonomy, the initiative reduces vulnerabilities to exploitation and strengthens women’s resilience in crisis contexts.
Karina Nersesyan, UNFPA Moldova Representative, emphasized the program’s impact: “Through the refugee support program, our aim was to offer women in vulnerable situations more than professional training—we provided them with tools to regain confidence, independence, and control over their own future. This initiative reflects the commitment of UNFPA and our strategic partner, the Government of the United Kingdom, to transform humanitarian response into real opportunities for inclusion and autonomy.”
The programs also challenge discriminatory social norms that limit women’s participation in economic and public life, aligning with European Union principles on gender equality, social inclusion, and equitable access to economic opportunities. Fern Horine, British Ambassador to Moldova, added: “Promoting gender equality and supporting the most vulnerable are fundamental priorities for the Government of the United Kingdom. We are proud to contribute to creating real opportunities for women, providing them with the resources and support needed to build a safe and dignified future. Investing in education and economic autonomy is essential to turning crisis into opportunity and strengthening resilient and inclusive communities.”
Studies show that early investments in women’s economic empowerment during humanitarian crises reduce vulnerabilities to gender-based violence, support recovery, and enhance overall community resilience. Through these micro-qualification programs, UNFPA Moldova demonstrates that even in challenging times, crisis can be transformed into opportunity, fostering empowerment, dignity, and sustainable livelihoods for women.
