Child care support course in Moldova trains Ukrainian mothers to specialize in child development services

Thursday, February 1, 2024

In a college classroom in Moldova, a group of determined women gathers, each with a unique story of resilience and hope.

World Vision, in collaboration with WeWorld, and support from Aktion Deutschland Hilft, facilitate capacity-building programs for both Ukrainians and host communities in Moldova as part of its Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) Strategy.

Among them is Galyna, a Ukrainian native from Odessa, who dreams of providing top-notch childcare services. "We wanted to study extensively," she explains, "to understand the intricacies of childcare from various perspectives—psychology, mental, nutrition, and pedagogy."

The attentive batch of trainees for the child care course with the trainer Professor Diana Casu.

Galyna's aspirations extend beyond conventional child sitting duties. Together with her peers Tatiana and Olena whom she met during their volunteer work in different organizations, she hopes to open a Children's Development Center in Chisinau.

"We aim to offer a comprehensive service for children's development," she shares passionately. "Our journey starts here in Moldova."

Hanna, grandmother of 14 children says, "I discovered this course online, and my children had already enrolled without my knowledge. It's been a great learning experience, thanks to the organization. This training covers topics like teaching, medicine, and psychology, essential for caring for children."

Tatiana recounts her harrowing journey fleeing Ukraine with her youngest son amidst war. "I saved my youngest child, but the trauma lingered," she reveals. Moldova became their unexpected refuge.

"Although I had to leave my other sons who are already adults and cannot go out of the country, I am immensely grateful that we are safe and thriving here," she expresses, her eyes reflecting the weight of their ordeal.

Tatiana recounts her harrowing journey fleeing Ukraine with her youngest son amidst war. "I saved my youngest child, but the trauma lingered," she reveals. Moldova became their unexpected refuge. "Although I had to leave my other sons who are already adults, I am immensely grateful that we are safe and thriving here," she expresses, her eyes reflecting the weight of their ordeal.

“In Odesa, I worked for nine years as rehabilitation specialist for children with special needs, so I believe I have the expertise and background for us to open a development center after this course,” Tatiana adds.

Prof. Diana Casu during a class demonstration. The women were very happy to take their child care and development skills to a higher level to support the future generation.

Their paths converge with Olena who struggles to care for her daughter diagnosed with autism. "I am here to learn, not just as a mother but also thinking we can also share this knowledge and help other Ukrainian mothers," Olena confides.

“This course helps to support my daughter and soon other parents facing similar challenges. We are so grateful for the opportunity to learn for free. Thank you for organizing courses that are so important for us now,” Olena adds.

I am delighted that individuals have the opportunity to enrich their understanding from a pedagogical standpoint. I commend the investment made by NGOs like World Vision in educational policies, which promote learning and development.

Their shared experiences and volunteer work in other organizations in Moldova bind them as they navigate the course, covering topics from child psychology to practical caregiving.

The course was conducted in partnership with the Pedagogical College "Alexei Mateevici" and accredited by the National Agency for Quality Assurance in Education and Research in Moldova.

"This course is more than just about becoming child carers," Galyna emphasizes. "It's about empowering ourselves to create meaningful change within our families and our community."

Tatiana, Galyna, and Olena attentively engage in the nanny class, demonstrating their earnestness to learn and absorb the valuable information being presented

"We want to provide inclusive care, to children with diverse needs, including those with autism and special needs " Galina explains, her voice brimming with determination.

The course not only equips them with essential skills but also offers a lifeline amidst uncertainty. As the women embark on this transformative journey, their hopes transcend individual success.

"Our ultimate goal is peace," Olena reflects, echoing the sentiment shared by many affected by the conflict. "Through education and support, we can pave the way for a better tomorrow."

Yulia who now works as a child facilitator at a UN agency's child-friendly space said, "I am so happy to have a new job in Moldova fresh from the Nanny course I recently attended. I'm able to better provide my children living with me here in Chisinau."

Professor Diana Cașu, a lecturer at Alexei Mateevici College in Chisinau, is among the instructors of the course. She expressed her satisfaction with the project, which attracted over 50 participants.

She remarked, "I am delighted that individuals have the opportunity to enrich their understanding from a pedagogical standpoint. I commend the investment made by NGOs like World Vision in educational policies, which promote learning and development.”

She adds, “Additionally, it is heartening to see Ukrainian refugees taking advantage of these opportunities."

As these collective partnerships continue to evolve, they serve as a testament to the shared commitment toward fostering resilience and empowerment within communities affected by the challenges in the region.

Story and photos by Eugene Combo and Christopher Lete / WorldVision

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