More Work with Demining Machines: The Second Course on Mine Action for Disabled Veterans Underway
Field exercises are in progress for participants of the second mine action course, organized by Ukraine's Ministry of Economy in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and funded by Sweden. Earlier this week, veterans worked at the training grounds of the Swiss Foundation for Mine Action (FSD) with the Croatian MV-10 from DOK-ING and the lightweight demining machine "Zmiy" from Rovertech. Participants were also introduced to Ukrainian demining and soil preparation machines from the Kharkiv Tractor Plant (MP5100 and MP3200) and observed the Slovakian Bozena in action. At the end of the week, field exercises involving machines operated by Global Clearance Solutions are planned.
“We decided to focus the second veterans' course on working with demining machines because this technology significantly accelerates territory clearance and enhances safety for deminers. Governmental, international, and private operators already use over 150 such machines, and this number continues to grow. It’s crucial for veterans to understand the intricacies of mechanized demining, as this is a type of work they can undertake after additional training,” said Ihor Bezkorovainyi, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Economy.
The second mine action course for disabled veterans began on December 2 and will run for two and a half weeks, ending on December 18, 2024. In addition to working with demining machines, 12 participants will study national mine action standards, humanitarian land clearance practices, and foundational principles of mine action.
“Integrating veterans into the labor market is an important step towards enhancing community safety and empowering individuals in Ukraine. Our initiative has a transformative impact on veterans' reintegration processes and strengthens our commitment to the primary goals of rebuilding the country, where mine action is a prerequisite,” noted UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, Jaco Cilliers.
For this second course, the Ministry of Economy collaborated with the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, the Mine Action Center, the State Emergency Service, and the State Special Transport Service. International and private demining operators, demining equipment manufacturers, international partners, and Ukrainian civil organizations also participated.
“These programs not only enhance veterans' capabilities but also make a significant contribution to the overall safety of communities affected by conflict. The collaboration between the Ukrainian government, UNDP, and international partners is vital to maintaining progress in mine action,” emphasized Sweden’s Ambassador to Ukraine, Martin Оberg.
The first mine action course for individuals affected by mines and other explosive devices was held in August 2024 with the support of UNDP and funding from the Netherlands government. Ten veterans of the Russo-Ukrainian war participated, five of whom are now working as image analysts for The HALO Trust, the largest mine action operator in Ukraine.