More classes in Ukrainian; Romanian study mandatory
The education system in the Republic of Moldova is actively adapting to accommodate the integration of refugee children from Ukraine. This year, approximately 3,600 Ukrainian students have enrolled in schools and kindergartens nationwide. They are receiving both educational and financial support to help facilitate their participation in the learning process. Additionally, the number of classes specifically for refugees that provide instruction in the Ukrainian language was doubled. However, the opportunity to study in a Ukrainian-language class is currently available only at the "Taras Shevchenko" Gymnasium in Chisinau.
Educational institutions are prepared to welcome refugee students, including those who do not yet possess all the necessary documents. They can submit a declaration at their own responsibility, with the understanding that required documents will be provided later. This information was shared by Ivan Duminica, the head of the Political Service in the field of interethnic relations at the Ministry of Education, during an interview with Radio Moldova.
A key focus is placed on learning the Romanian language. The ministry has developed a special curriculum tailored for refugee students and children from the diaspora to facilitate their integration.
“All these measures aim to motivate students to study specifically in our schools, as it has been three years since the beginning of the war in Ukraine. We are advocating for the integration of these students, with knowledge of the Romanian language being essential. We are currently acting as supporters, and work is being done at the final stage to develop a curriculum specifically for teaching the Romanian language to refugees and children from the diaspora, emphasizing intensive language learning,” Ivan Duminica explained.
A notable example of the integration of Ukrainian refugees into local schools is the "Taras Şevcenko" Gymnasium in Chisinau, where, last year, four classes were taught in Ukrainian with mandatory Romanian language study. This year, the number of classes has doubled, opening a total of nine classes dedicated to Ukrainian students, according to Ivan Duminica. To attract more students and aid their integration, the gymnasium will also inaugurate a renovated school cafeteria and rehabilitated sports halls with the support of development partners.
“Practically, the number of classes taught in Ukrainian has doubled, with mandatory Romanian language instruction included. These measures are designed to motivate and support the integration of Ukrainian refugee students into the Republic of Moldova's educational system. In some areas, we do not have schools offering classes in the Russian language, so students there are already required to study in Romanian. We recognize that this presents challenges. However, teachers are providing personalized programs for each student. For instance, if a seventh-grade student arrives who does not know Romanian, we ensure tailored support,” the state secretary stated in the Radio Moldova interview.
Additionally, integrating refugee teachers is another priority for the Ministry of Education. Since 2022, the ministry has equivalentized the diplomas of 38 Ukrainian teachers, allowing them to teach in schools throughout the Republic of Moldova.
