The course empowers mine action field managers and personnel by providing them with the knowledge and practical skills needed to plan, manage and execute efficient and effective land release operations in an expert manner, including in relation to non-technical survey (NTS), technical survey (TS), clearance and quality management.

Aim

The course is designed to equip participants with the essential skills for effective land release operations. Delivered in a blended format, the course begins with an 8-week online phase where participants engage with e-learning materials, complete weekly assignments, and take part in virtual sessions that encourage real-time interaction, learning checks, and discussions. This online component lays the theoretical groundwork for the in-person phase, which focuses on scenario-based exercises, group work, and practical outdoor activities that simulate real-world conditions. Together, these elements ensure participants are thoroughly prepared for hands-on application and field deployment.

What you will learn?

The course strengthens participants’ capacity to:

• Explain the importance of land release process and its key components of NTS, TS and clearance;
• Describe land release NTS operations in accordance with the International Mine Action Standards (IMAS);
• Plan and manage NTS activities effectively and efficiently;
• Implement TS methodologies to analyse and define the extent of EO contamination and its characteristics;
• Plan and manage different operational methodologies and use of context appropriate tools, including manual, mechanical and animal detection system (ADS) assisted operations;
• Outline key principles of quality management in LR process; and ensure compliance with international standards and protocols;

Who should attend?

• Individuals from NMAA, NMAC, or organizations acting on their behalf, and MA operators, including national ones, who are responsible for operational decision-making including the planning, tasking, monitoring and oversight of land release field operations; 

• Individuals from NMAA, NMAC, or organizations acting on their behalf, and MA operators, including national ones, who are responsible for managing functions supporting Land Release such as Quality Management, Information Management, development of NMAS, training, strategic planning; 

• Individuals implementing land release tasks provided that their respective organizations confirm a clear professional development plan aimed at advancing the candidate to operational decision-making role. 

Donors

Switzerland (DDPS)

Mandatory e-learning courses to complete

Selected participants are required to complete the following GICHD e-learning courses:

• Introduction to gender and diversity in mine action e-learning course
• Introduction to explosive ordnance risk education (EORE) essentials e-learning course
• Understanding the International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) e-learning course

Language level requirements

Participants should be able communicate and present on their national standards in English. The following standards of proficiency in English should be met (as described in STANAG 6001).

• Listening: good | 3
• Speaking: fair | 2
• Reading: fair | 2
• Writing: elementary | 1

Language requirements are compulsory and should be confirmed by applicants’ superiors. 

Equipment requirements

Minimum Technology Requirements

• Computer with up-to-date web browser.
• Google Chrome is recommended
• Mobile phone

Computer Skills

• You will be required to: Navigate the web Interact with the Blackboard Learning Management System
• Utilize word processing software
• Enable audio and video settings on your device(s)

Teaching approach

The course has been designed as a blend of three equally important elements:

• Interactive self-study: articles, videos, quizzes, online discussions and e-learning components.
• Virtual sessions with instructors - interactive discussions and activities, bring more debth to the subject.
• In-person training: practical application of the knowledge and skills learnt.
• Impact assessment survey: the survey will be sent out 12 months after the training to enquire about the impact of the training on the individual and organisational performance.

The following methods are used to make the learning journey the most effective and... enjoyable:

• Scenario-based training: classroom-based and outdoor exercises.
• Peer learning: collaborative learning among participants
• Personalised support.
• Community of practice.

Assessment

• During the course participant performance will be evaluated. The overall grade for the course consists of 3 elements:
  • active participation in online self-paced learning and virtual life sessions | 15%
  • case studies exercises | 25%
  • final written test conducted in the classroom | 60%
• Note: The pre-course baseline test will be released to you during the first week of the self-study phase. You will receive a notification to your emails and instructions on how to complete it. The results of the test do not affect the course final grade.

Travel & Accommodation

The Swiss Government will cover participants’ expenses for food and accommodation while in Stans (arrival date 02 August 2026 and departure date 15 August 2026). Train tickets Zurich Airport – Stans – Zurich Airport will be reimbursed to the participants (only second-class tickets).

A limited number of sponsorships covering travel expenses from country of origin to Stans might be available for applicants with no other funding opportunities from developing countries. 

Note: The Swiss Armed Forces do not cover health care expenses. All participants are responsible for adequate insurance (health, accident and liability) or need a Governmental guarantee to cover any health care expenses in Switzerland. 

Location