Moldova's Education Ministry proposes integration of University of Cahul into Moldovan Technical University

The Education and Research Ministry (MEC) today launched public consultations on a draft government decision that provides for the establishment of the Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu University Center at the Technical University of Moldova (UTM). The proposal targets the integration of the Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu State University of Cahul into UTM.

According to the MEC, the University Center will operate as an integrated academic structure within UTM, with extended autonomy, representation in the University’s senate and a pro-rector meant for the activities in Cahul.

The cited source says that the draft provides for the preservation of the academic identity, educational profile and traditions of the university in Cahul.

For infrastructure development and equipment, the draft provides for an annual allocation of at least 10 million lei during four years, a separate budget for the center's operation and the prioritized use of University’s assets for educational and research activities. Starting from 2027, four additional researcher positions will be created, funded by the state budget.

Students will continue their studies without interruptions, retaining their budget places and without additional fees, while the university staff will be rehired at UTM, with their salary and professional rights guaranteed. A three-year moratorium is established on staff reductions exclusively due to reorganization.

The Education and Research Ministry notes that the decision comes in the context of a demographic decline in the region, which could decrease the number of potential students by approximately 14 per cent by 2030 and about 25 per cent by 2035, affecting institutional sustainability.

Presently, the university in Cahul has 1,034 students, most of whom are in a part-time regime, and only 4 out of 10 eligible graduates choose to study locally.

The MEC has invited the academic community, local authorities and civil society to participate in public consultations and implementation will be periodically monitored at 24 and 48 months, in order to ensure the achievement  of regional development goals.