Moldova to cover 50% of dual education costs for companies
The Moldovan Government has approved a fixed 50% subsidy scheme for companies offering practical training through vocational dual education programs.
Announced on July 29, the measure replaces the previous flexible refund policy of "up to 50%" with a guaranteed rate to give participating businesses greater financial predictability.
Expanding the vocational training fund
"We continue to support dual education, where young people study and work simultaneously," stated Minister of Education and Research Dan Perciun. He added that the government aims to enroll 3,000 students annually, targeting over 2,500 for the current year.
The state aid scheme will compensate businesses for student allowances, trainer salaries, and pedagogical training. To support the initiative, the annual subsidy fund will expand to 25 million MDL (approx. €1.27 million).
Higher employment rates for graduates
Under the dual education model, students split their time between theoretical coursework at vocational schools and hands-on apprenticeship at partner companies under the guidance of a master instructor.
According to the Ministry of Education, dual education graduates achieve an employment rate of roughly 60%, compared to around 30% for traditional vocational graduates.
Currently, about 3,300 students are enrolled in dual education programs organized in partnership with nearly 230 companies.
For the 2026–2027 academic year, the Ministry of Education has reserved 2,669 state-funded places, with over 300 companies offering training across more than 70 professional programs.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
