Ministry of Labour nominates winners of 2026 National Award for Seniors

The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection today nominated 15 winners of the 2026 edition of the National Award for Seniors “An Active Life at Any Age.” The event took place on the International Day of Older Persons and marks the tenth edition of the competition.

According to Minister of Labour and Social Protection Natalia Plugaru, 29 applications were submitted this year, and the winners stood out for their remarkable achievements in fields such as education, scientific research, culture, agriculture, music, sports, volunteering, and community development.


“I am very pleased that today we are celebrating and honoring the 15 laureates of the 2026 edition of the National Award for Older Persons ‘An Active Life at Any Age.’ Indeed, this is an anniversary edition, because for the tenth consecutive year we are presenting these awards. To date, 119 people have received these distinctions,” Natalia Plugaru said.


The minister emphasized that the participants’ stories demonstrate that involvement in community life can continue regardless of age. According to her, the experience and knowledge accumulated over the years represent a resource for future generations.


“You are living examples showing that experience and involvement have no expiration date. On the contrary, as the years go by, people accumulate knowledge that represents an extraordinary resource for the generations to come,” the minister said.


Natalia Plugaru noted that the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection will continue its programs and services for older persons, including home-care services and the development of day centers.

At the same time, the ministry is implementing the University of the Third Age, a program for people who wish to continue their education and attend courses. According to the minister, the program was also held in Cahul, where people over the age of 90 participated.


“Our goal is not to view the period of old age solely as a social service, where we must indeed provide support and social services. We also want to highlight your stories, in which you have demonstrated, through your own efforts, knowledge, ambition, and inspiration, that you can offer a great deal to the community and the people of this country,” Natalia Plugaru said.


The National Award is presented annually to people who, through their activities, contribute to community development and promote the active participation of older persons in society.

The minister congratulated the laureates and thanked them for their contribution to the community and the example they provide to future generations.