Vocational technical education of Moldova to be modernized with EU's support; Moldovan president: “An example of the benefits brought by the European path”

The support on behalf of the European Union for Moldova will contribute to the modernization of vocational technical education through investments of 80 million euros in 25 vocational schools, colleges and centers of excellence. President Maia Sandu says that the project, included in the Growth Plan for Moldova, will improve study and practical training conditions for more than 20,000 pupils annually.

According to the head of state, European investments will enable the renovation of 47 buildings, including study blocks, workshops, laboratories and dormitories.

"Young people will study in modern conditions, have access to high-performance equipment for practical training and enjoy better living conditions. More than 20,000 pupils will annually benefit from these investments. This is how we encourage young people to fulfill their potential, find a profession they enjoy and one that will provide them with a good life at home, in Moldova. All of this is possible thanks to our rapprochement with the European Union. The investment is part of the Growth Plan for Moldova and is yet another concrete example of the benefits brought by our European path," the head of state said.

    



Maia Sandu emphasized that the transformation of vocational technical education had started during her tenure as education minister, when the dual education system was launched, centers of excellence were opened and the funding mechanism was changed.

"When I came to the Education Ministry, we began the structural transformation of vocational technical education, with the aim of redirecting the outdated system toward economic development and European standards. We started implementing the dual education system, through which young people receive both classroom education and practical training, initiated the opening of centers of excellence and changed the funding method. These transformations are continuing today," Maia Sandu said.



    



The 80-million-euro budget will be provided from three sources: 40 million euros will represent the government's contribution through the Reform and Growth Facility, 33 million euros will be provided by the Council of Europe Development Bank, and another seven million euros will represent a grant offered through the Neighbourhood Investment Platform.