International Master Class in Moldova Empowers Youth Workers Supporting Migrants and Refugee Children Across Europe

On June 5, the Republic of Moldova hosted an international Master Class as part of the “Digital Platform of Knowledge and Skills Development for Youth Working with Child Migrants and Refugees at European Level” (DP5YOU) project. The initiative is co-funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ Youth programme.

Organized by the National Youth Agency, the seminar aimed to introduce youth workers to the objectives and tools of the DP5YOU project. The project focuses on equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to support displaced children and refugee communities affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

Mr. Vadim Smintina, Deputy Director of the Agency, served as host, moderator, and keynote speaker. In his opening address, he outlined the main phases of the project and encouraged active collaboration among participants.

The seminar was attended by 51 youth workers, representing the majority of youth centers in the country. Several participants already have experience working with children or young refugees from Ukraine.

The seminar included an expert survey, interactive discussions, and the collection of actionable ideas to enhance the project’s implementation at both national and European levels.

The event also featured:

• Yaroslav Galan, Project Coordinator and Head of the Ukrainian public organisation “YOUTH. SCIENCE. SPORTS. HEALTHY MOVEMENT OF UKRAINE”, who welcomed the participants, presented the features of the DP5YOU digital platform, screened a motivational video, and provided responses to participants’ questions.
• Joana Galvão (joining online), from ASSOCIACAO CHECK-IN – COOPERACAO E DESENVOLVIMENTO (Portugal), who shared her organization’s best practices for creating inclusive environments for youth engagement;
• Vitalie Cirhana and Mr. Ion Donea (joining online), representatives of MilleniuM Training and Development Institute (Moldova), who discussed the institute’s educational initiatives and strategies for involving young people in social development.

This event served as a dynamic platform for professional development, knowledge exchange, and the strengthening of cross-border partnerships in the field of youth work – particularly in support of refugee and migrant children.