Thank you to Sigrid Rausing Trust for supporting the development of conservation professionals!
Our training programmes are more than just courses. They are part of a long-term, coherent vision to strengthen the human capacity for nature conservation in Romania. And to bring this vision to life, we need partners who believe in the value of people working in conservation – and who are willing to invest in their growth.
We are deeply grateful to Sigrid Rausing Trust for their generous support in launching Ranger 2025 – through which 18 passionate protected area professionals were trained in this essential role. This programme complements the broader suite of blended learning opportunities developed by the Centre of Excellence for Nature (CEN), including the Protected Area Specialist programme launched in 2024.
CEN – the Centre of Excellence for Nature – is our response to the urgent need for professionalisation in the nature conservation sector. We created this centre to build a community of well-trained, connected and respected professionals dedicated to protecting nature. Through blended learning programmes, we deliver practical, hands-on training tailored to the real needs of protected area professionals.
CEN – more than training: a national platform for excellence in conservation
CEN is more than professional training. It is a comprehensive platform built on seven pillars:
A. Professionalisation framework

We work to build a strong framework for recognising and developing occupations in the field of protected areas and nature conservation. Activities include developing occupational standards, certifying training programmes, promoting official recognition of roles, and setting up accredited evaluation centres.
B. Learning Programmes

We design long-term training programmes such as the “Protected Area Specialist” and “Ranger”, aimed at developing deep, relevant, and practice-oriented professional competencies.
C. Short Courses

We offer short, intensive training courses (1–5 days) on essential topics for protected area management and nature conservation. These are tailored to the needs of professionals and delivered in a flexible, participatory format focused on practical solutions.
D. Experience Exchange and Working Together

We foster peer-to-peer learning and collaboration through thematic events, study tours, working groups, and other activities that help build a strong, connected professional community.
E. Learning & Teaching Resources

We provide a functional online platform, an updated library with relevant materials, and accessible e-learning courses to support continuous and self-paced professional development.
F. Trainers & Experts

We strengthen our network of trainers and experts by organising Training of Trainers events, annual meetings for experience exchange, and collaborative educational projects and resource development.
G. G. Assessment and Communication și comunicare

We define quality standards and procedures, build the CEN visual identity, and carry out promotional activities to communicate our values, programmes, and the impact of our work in the conservation field.
Through these pillars, we support the continuous development of those who dedicate their careers to nature protection. Each programme we design is an investment in the future of nature – and in the people who safeguard it every day.
