Anna Anisimova, Head of the Non-Technical Survey and Community Liaison Team at the Charitable Foundation “Return to Life”, is enhancing her professional qualifications by attending an international Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (IEDD) course held at the MAT Kosovo – EOD & ERW Training Establishment international training center in Kosovo.

The training was organized at the invitation of the NGO Association of Ukrainian Deminers as part of the project “She Is a Deminer,” implemented jointly with the NGO Girls and UN Women Ukraine, with financial support from international partners. The project “She Is a Deminer” aims to strengthen the role of women in mine action and to develop their professional competencies.

In addition to Anna, female deminers from other national mine action operators are also participating in the training, including Ukrainian Demining Services and the Ukrainian Demining Agency.

The course runs from February 16 to March 13, 2026, and includes both theoretical and practical training in accordance with the international IMAS 09.31 standard. Participants are mastering methods for the search and identification of improvised explosive devices, the use of specialized equipment and personal protective equipment, and procedures for the safe execution of tasks in line with international standards.

💬 “We are proud that our team continuously improves its qualifications and takes part in international programs that strengthen Ukraine’s capacity in the field of humanitarian demining,” said Foundation Director Kateryna Skrypnikova.

It is worth noting that approximately 30% of the Foundation’s team are women, who play an important role in implementing humanitarian and security initiatives.