New model schools in the Republic of Moldova: current situation and future prospects

Abstract

The Republic of Moldova has initiated an ambitious national project to create a Network of Model Schools aimed at improving educational quality and equity across the country. This paper examines the current status of the initiative, focusing on the renovation and modernization of 35 general education institutions, with a special emphasis on rural and underserved areas. The project seeks to bridge the gap between rural and urban educational outcomes by providing state-of-the-art infrastructure, modernized curricula, and enhanced digital learning tools. The study highlights the role of international partnerships, such as those with the World Bank, UNICEF, and USAID, in supporting the initiative through financial and technical assistance. A comprehensive analysis of the distances between settlements within Chisinau municipality and a Model School demonstrates challenges related to accessibility for rural students. The findings emphasize the importance of sustained investment, teacher training, and community engagement in ensuring the long-term success of the Model Schools initiative. The project holds significant potential to improve educational outcomes and reduce disparities, aligning Moldova's education system with European Union standards. The article was developed within the framework of Subprogram 030101 „Strengthening the resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of the economy of the Republic of Moldova in the context of the accession process to the European Union”, institutional funding.