"Independence that unites us" - theme of the 2026-2027 school year
The 2026-2027 academic year will commence in all public and private general education institutions in the Republic of Moldova with a thematic lesson celebrating the 35th anniversary of the proclamation of Independence. Titled "Independence that unites us", this first lesson will be held on September 1 for students in grades I-XII. It will focus on the country's history, democratic values, and each generation's responsibility for the future of the Republic of Moldova.
The Ministry of Education and Research stated that a lesson will provide students with an opportunity to better understand the Republic of Moldova's path to independence and reflect on the transformations the country has undergone over the past three and a half decades. Students will also be encouraged to discuss the role each generation plays in shaping the country's present and future.
The activities will be organized around three main themes: "Path to independence," "Symbols and values of independence," and "Independence that unites us."
In the first theme, students will analyze the defining events of the period from 1989 to 1991, along with the Declaration of Independence and the key transformations that the Republic of Moldova has experienced from 1991 to 2026.
According to the Ministry of Education and Research, it is essential to highlight state symbols, the Romanian language, historical, cultural, and natural heritage, as well as the values that underpin a democratic society.
An important aspect of this lesson is that independence should be viewed not only as a historical moment but also as a responsibility that each generation must embrace. The values addressed during the lesson will include freedom exercised with responsibility, human dignity, peace, solidarity, integrity, civic participation, justice, and the rule of law.
Students will be invited to reflect on questions such as what independence means in today’s society, how it can be built collectively, and how each individual can contribute to the country's development. They will also be encouraged to express their vision for the future of the Republic of Moldova.
To support teachers in preparing these activities, the Ministry of Education and Research, with the assistance of the Council of Europe, has developed a set of teaching materials tailored to different age groups and educational levels.
The materials include suggestions for activities and learning tasks that can be adapted to the context of each class and community, according to the ministry's press release.
Teachers will also have the opportunity to participate in workshops dedicated to organizing the first thematic lesson. During these workshops, the developed materials and methods for incorporating them into the educational process will be presented.
The Ministry of Education and Research has stated that the lesson "Independence that unites us" is part of the activities dedicated to the Decade of Education for National Values.
The institution aims to make the beginning of the new school year an opportunity for intergenerational dialogue, reflection on common values, and the assumption of responsibility for the future of the Republic of Moldova through this lesson.
