Currently the only such training centre in Slovenia, it can admit up to a hundred recruits a month. They are trained by qualified members of the active component of the armed forces. The candidates who decide to take training and become professional soldiers, come with different military experiences and levels of general education. The centre therefore offers three different programmes of training, all of which include drills. The training wraps up with the final testing of candidate skills in the field, which takes several days and can only be attended by those trainees who have scored satisfactory results in more than 85 percent of the training and at least 80 percent of the shooting exercises. The candidates also have to undergo examination of their theoretical knowledge, practical skills and physical fitness.

The would-be professional soldiers and reserve forces are told immediately upon their arrival at the Vipava centre what theoretical knowledge and skills they will be expected to have mastered upon the conclusion of the training. During their course, the candidates are constantly encouraged and guided so as to attain the required norms more easily. As is the custom, men and women are accommodated separately.

After their arrival at the training centre, candidates get personal arms and are sworn in. Those who successfully conclude the training get certificates, while the best candidates are awarded with a special recognition of their merits. The centre encourages trainees to engage in independent activities, such as sport and culture. Centre officials say there is an interest in the type of training they offer, as well as in the military profession, moreover it is likely to grow with the approaching date of NATO accession. Gov't PR Office