The pandemic situation, evidently, has been affecting economies worldwide, and national governments are looking for innovative solutions to stabilize the situation. Definitely, migrants and refugees can be among these solutions. Although being highly vulnerable, they create more economic value than one may think. They are important for various sectors of the economy, particularly for agriculture and healthcare. They demonstrate willingness and qualification if given an opportunity.

The Council of Europe EQPR is vividly one of these opportunities. This is a unique tool to motivate migrants and refugees and enhance their social inclusion.

The interest in EQPR is also high during COVID-19 pandemic. In June and July 2020 the evaluation sessions were held in Greece and Italy.  Two members of ArmENIC namely the Head of the Center, Gayane Harutyunayn, and the Credential Evaluator, Nazani Gevorkyan, participated in 4 sessions together with the colleagues from Hellenic NARIC and CIMEA/Italy. During the sessions, 16 refugees from Somalia, Palestine, Turkey, Iran, South Sudan, Eritrea, Nigeria, Afghanistan, and Cuba were interviewed using BlueJeans platform. Some of the interviewees had expectations to continue their studies, while others sought jobs.   The majority of the interviewees succeeded in substantiating their qualifications and will be awarded EQPR.