Moldovan president says education Moldova's shield, first line of country's defense

President Maia Sandu today participated in the National Teachers' Forum, which brought together hundreds of teachers from general education institutions across the country, as well as representatives of public institutions, international organizations, academic and business environment in Chisinau. President Maia Sandu thanked the teachers for their dedication, courage and belief that education changes lives and emphasized the important role they play in the country’s future.

"Education is our shield, the first line of the country’s defense. You are not just raising specialists. You are raising citizens. You are raising people who love this country, believe in it, and defend it. You nurture the courage to think freely and the dignity to speak the truth. You promote respect for our values - sovereignty, dignity, peace, mutual respect, integrity, our language and culture", the head of state said.

President Maia Sandu wished success to the teachers in the new school year and encouraged them to contribute to the European future of Moldova.

"In your classrooms, antibodies against lies and manipulation should be formed. This mission is directly connected to the most important project of our country: joining the European Union. Because Europe means not only treaties and negotiations, but values lived day by day. And these values take root in school, where the generation that will preserve freedom, peace and democracy is trained. A country without involved youth becomes a vulnerable country, where others decide for us", said President Maia Sandu.

The National Teachers' Forum, now in its third edition, represents a platform for discussions, experience exchange and best practices in the education field.