"During the training sessions, I saw extremely active young people eager to study and gain knowledge, and I felt I could help them grow. Looking at them, I remembered myself 13 years ago, when I won a European scholarship at the University of Bologna that opened so many doors for me... It changed my way of thinking and encouraged me to test successful external practices back home," the researcher recalls.

Her workshops were fully booked and participants were engaged, Janna says: "I was delighted to see over 25 people interested in this topic, who attended all the sessions, completed their assignments. We worked together to analyze and improve them."

The students' project ideas varied, ranging from valorizing secondary food streams and extracting bioactive compounds, to modernizing the laboratory, accessing European funds, and promoting research results in international networks.

Two Erasmus+ project proposals were developed with the participants, based on these ideas.

"Through initiatives like this, we lay the basis for solid collaborations between local researchers and those in the diaspora, accelerating the implementation of innovative and sustainable practices in Moldova. This gives me a deep sense of professional fulfillment," Janna Cropotova says.

In Norway, Janna Cropotova splits her time between being an Associate Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and enjoying her work as a researcher. "I lead a scientific research group working on topics such as producing fish oils and biofunctional peptides, valorizing waste from fish and seafood processing, and creating products with an extended shelf life. For example, we produce fish oil concentrates high in polyunsaturated Omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA or bioactive peptides from fish," she explains.

When asked if she considers returning permanently to Moldova, Janna concludes that temporary return initiatives could convince professionals to come back for good: "Moldova has significant intellectual potential. With diaspora expertise and investments—primarily in education and research—we can develop our country and grow the economy, improving citizens' living standards. This could encourage the diaspora to return permanently."

The Short-Term Return Programme for Diaspora Members with Advanced Professional Experience is aimed at Moldovan citizens abroad who want to contribute to the country's development. Participants shall be recognized experts in their fields, employed abroad, have three years of work experience within the last five years, hold higher education degrees, and be proficient in Romanian.

The fields where diaspora members can get involved are diverse: education, health, justice, energy, innovation and technology transfer, digitalization, creative industries, public administration, communication, and public relations, among others.

The mission lasts up to 14 cumulative days with physical presence in Moldova over five consecutive months. The programme covers international transport and daily allowances during the stay in Moldova.