Keystone Moldova Strengthens National Employment Agency (ANOFM) Specialists’ Capacity for Labor Market Inclusion

Keystone Moldova has successfully completed all five rounds of the training course “Labor Market Integration of Persons Requiring Additional Support in Employment,” designed for specialists from the territorial subdivisions of the National Employment Agency (ANOFM).

Implemented between May and July 2026, the program strengthened the competencies of 124 professionals from ANOFM territorial offices across all districts of Moldova, who provide daily support to individuals in vulnerable situations in finding and maintaining employment.

Over the course of the three-day training, participants explored key topics related to labor market inclusion, the regulatory framework, effective communication, motivational counseling, and intervention methods tailored to the individual needs of beneficiaries.

The sessions provided a valuable space for learning and experience sharing, where participants examined the challenges faced by various groups in vulnerable situations, including persons with disabilities, NEET youth (Not in Employment, Education, or Training), single parents, individuals aged 50 and above, returning migrants, women with young children, and members of Roma communities. Practical solutions and approaches for delivering personalized and effective support were also discussed.

“The training equipped me with practical knowledge and tools that will help me perform my duties more effectively. One of the most valuable topics covered was the development and implementation of the Individual Action Plan (IAP), which is an important tool when working with jobseekers,” said Victoria Postolachi, Senior Specialist, Fălești Territorial Employment Office.

A strong emphasis was placed on developing communication and motivational counseling skills. Through practical exercises and case studies, participants practiced techniques that facilitate building trust-based relationships with beneficiaries, identifying their resources and potential, and overcoming barriers to employment integration.

“This training course addresses a real need to strengthen ANOFM specialists’ competencies in supporting individuals who require additional assistance in the labor market. In addition to deepening their understanding of the methodology, participants enhanced their communication and motivational counseling skills, explored ways to collaborate effectively with parents, caregivers, and employers, and identified practical solutions for removing barriers that limit employment integration, including the promotion of reasonable workplace accommodations for people with disabilities. I am confident that these competencies will contribute to delivering more accessible and inclusive employment services for every beneficiary,” emphasized Angela Cara, PhD in Education, Associate Professor, and Trainer.

One of the central topics of the course was the labor market integration of people with disabilities. Participants analyzed the barriers limiting access to and retention in employment, discussed the concept of supported employment, and examined the role employers play in creating inclusive work environments. The training also explored ways in which employment services can support the integration and retention of people with disabilities in the labor market.

“The training was extremely useful because it provided answers to many questions and uncertainties I had regarding active labor market measures. I especially appreciated the information on the labor market integration of people with disabilities and NEET youth. I would recommend this training to my colleagues because it offers practical and relevant knowledge for our daily work,” said Viorica Russu, Senior Specialist, Căușeni Territorial Employment Service Office.

“I particularly appreciated the practical component of the training, which included examples and situations drawn from our everyday work. The information presented helped me better understand how we can approach employers with empathy and creativity and encourage them to provide employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. I recommend this training to my colleagues because it provides useful knowledge, and active participation in the sessions allows participants to fully benefit from the learning experience,” shared Tatiana Iasciuc, Head of the Dubăsari Territorial Employment Service Office.

The program also includes follow-up and mentoring sessions, which will support participants in applying the knowledge gained and continuing the development of their professional competencies.

Investing in the professional development of ANOFM specialists contributes to more accessible employment services, better tailored to beneficiaries’ needs, and more effective in supporting individuals who require additional assistance in the labor market. Ultimately, this translates into greater opportunities for labor market integration and active participation in community life for people in vulnerable situations.

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The training course “Labor Market Integration of Persons Requiring Additional Support in Employment” is organized within the project “Enhanced Local Employment Opportunities and Access to Childcare Services for Parents in Vulnerable Situations”, funded by the European Union and co-financed and implemented by Soros Foundation Moldova in partnership with I.P. Keystone Moldova and Expert-Grup.