Within the framework of the PfP Partnership Work Programme, the Swiss Government, through the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), has the honor to invite qualified representatives from all PfP Partner States to this course taking place from 8 to 19 July 2024 in Spiez, Switzerland.
Gender and Diversity
Both the GICHD and the DDPS promote good gender and diversity practices to avoid all forms of discrimination. Applications are encouraged from women, minorities, persons with disabilities and persons of all sexual orientation or gender identity.
The overall aim of this 10-day training course is to enhance knowledge, skills and attitude of Mine Action staff in relation to Operational Management with the following learning objectives:
The course is designed to improve and build upon attendees` existing knowledge and experiences of efficiently and effectively planning, implementing, monitoring, assessing, and evaluating MA operations. This course will last 10 working days and will include practical and theory lessons, as well as pre- and post-course assessments.
In preparation for the course, all participants will be required to review preparatory reading material and complete mandatory online modules as a prerequisite for attending the course.
This training course is inclusive and interactive, enabling peer-led knowledge-sharing and reflective learning, through Q&A and simulation exercises. A fictional scenario will be used during the course for various practical exercises.
The GICHD has developed a Mine Action Managers` Course, primarily for the staff involved in operational management of National Mine Action Programmes, national and international Mine Action operators.
The number of participants is limited to 22. Preference will be given to individuals directly working in mine action operations. The GICHD will seek to ensure gender and diversity-balanced participation.
Language Requirements
Participants must have the following standards of proficiency in English (as described in STANAG 6001): 3221.
▪ Listening (good / 3) ▪ Speaking (fair / 2)
▪ Reading (fair / 2) ▪ Writing (elementary/ 1)
Language requirements are compulsory and have to be confirmed by applicants’ superiors - No interpreters are provided for this course.
Application
A letter of endorsement is required from the superior to complete the registration.
The registration form should be filled in no later than 31 March 2024
In addition to national and international staff of mine action organisations, the course is also open to NATO/PfP, MD, ICI and Contact States.
Cost
The Swiss Government will cover participant expenses for food and accommodation while in Spiez (Sunday, 7 July 2024, earliest date of arrival to Saturday, 20 July 2024, latest date of departure).
Visa
Participants requiring a visa should apply at the Swiss Embassy in their country. Invitation letters can be provided by the GICHD.
Transportation and Sponsorship
Travel costs from country of origin to Zurich, Switzerland has to be covered by each respective organisation. It is recommended that all participants schedule an arrival in Zurich, Switzerland no later than Sunday, 7 July 2024.
There are up to three subsidies for transportation to and from Switzerland available. Sponsorship is not guaranteed and requests will be considered on a case by case basis. It is imperative that applicants wishing subsidies for transportation get in touch with the GICHD (pfp@gichd.org) before making any arrangements, and not later than the application deadline on 31 March 2024.
Train tickets Zurich Airport – Spiez – Zurich Airport will be reimbursed to the participants (only second-class tickets). Flights to and from Switzerland have to be covered by the participant’s organisation.
Insurance
The DDPS and the GICHD do not cover health care expenses. All participants are themselves responsible for adequate insurance (health, accident and liability) or need a Governmental guarantee to cover any health care expenses in Switzerland.
Cancellation
The course is subject to final funding confirmation.
The GICHD has the right to cancel the course latest two weeks prior to the training should it not reach the minimum number of participants.
GICHD.org / AP Mine Ban Convention / Mine Action Standards / IMSMA wiki / Collaborative ORDnance data repository / Convention on Cluster Munitions / Gender and Mine Action Programme