Dan Perciun
According to the minister, one of the existing problems in the education system is the significant disparity in educational outcomes depending on where schools are located. In his view, the creation of regional agencies directly subordinate to the Ministry of Education will help reduce these disparities.
“We need to address the problem where a child’s chances of receiving a quality education vary depending on where they live and which school is closest to them. This is wrong. As early as fourth grade, we see major differences in outcomes between some schools and others—between student performance in cities and villages, in district centers and small towns. Part of the solution to this problem is changing the approach to school management so that the ministry, through regional agencies that will take over the functions of education departments, can better and more directly coordinate the activities of educational institutions,” the minister said.
The Multifaceted Nature of the Reform
He also outlined a number of other expected changes following the implementation of the reform: the creation of well-equipped and effective regional agencies with modern digital tools, a reduction in the bureaucratic burden on principals and teachers, and increased support for educational institutions.
In addition, the authorities intend to focus more on areas such as improving integrity and accountability in schools, developing inclusive education, expanding student participation in school life, and preventing bullying.
The minister cited reducing political influence on the education system as one of the reform’s goals. According to him, the management of the school system should be based primarily on the best interests of the child and be less dependent on local political factors.
The changes are scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2027. The bill is set to undergo a first reading in parliament, and then, prior to the second reading, the authorities intend to continue consultations with representatives of the education system.
Perciun also noted that the ministry is awaiting written comments from the Chisinau Municipality’s General Directorate of Education, Youth, and Sports, which had previously raised a number of objections to the reform. According to the minister, the ministry is open to technical adjustments if they help make the transition process more effective.
