Model schools' network expands in Moldova, to include 90 institutions, with investments of 220 million euros

The Model Schools’ Network will be expanded and will include 90 educational institutions across the country. Thus, in addition to the 35 schools selected for the first phase of renovation and modernization, another 55 institutions will join, of which 24 are from the Chisinau municipality.

Minister of Education and Research Dan Perciun has said that the authorities aimed to transform the selected schools into modern educational centers – with infrastructure adapted to the needs of pupils and teachers, high-performance laboratories, new furniture, digital equipment and proper sanitary conditions.

The modernization of the 90 model schools requires an estimated budget of 220 million euros. So far, the Education and Research Ministry (MEC) has identified about 155 million euros from external sources.

For the first 35 institutions included in the Model Schools’ Network, technical projects are already under development and some works are underway – including the renovation of STEAM laboratories, equipping with ICT (information and communication technology) equipment, rehabilitating sanitary blocks, a canteen, and a gym.

The Model Schools’ Network is a strategic programme of MEC, launched in 2023, which aims to transform the selected schools into true examples of best practice – both through infrastructure and modern teaching methods. The initiative is supported by the World Bank, the European Union, the government of Poland, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and some private companies.