Moldova expands peer math tutoring for national exams
Moldova has launched the second edition of its nationwide peer-tutoring initiative, pairing secondary school students with older mentors to boost performance in national mathematics graduation exams.
Collaborative learning nationwide
The program, titled “Peer-to-Peer Mathematics,” transforms exam preparation into a collaborative nationwide effort. High school students and university volunteers conduct extracurricular tutoring sessions for ninth graders ahead of their lower-secondary graduation tests.
During the pilot edition last spring, 300 youth mentors delivered over 3,000 tutoring hours across the country. Organizers confirmed that the sessions significantly contributed to higher exam pass rates and reduced academic anxiety among participating pupils.
“Personally, I feel much less stressed with student mentors than with teachers,” said one ninth-grade pupil. “Compared to the mock tests, I felt far more confident and focused during the actual exam.”
Mentors bridge the classroom gap
Senior students say the initiative fosters both civic responsibility and deeper practical understanding. For volunteer mentors, breaking down mathematical concepts reinforces essential life skills.
“Mathematics is not just about numbers; it is about preparing for life in the real world,” said Sabrina Chilat, a mentor and pupil at the “Bogdan Petriceicu Hașdeu” Theoretical High School in Bălți. “I encourage any eligible student to join, because they have everything to gain.”
Former participants also highlight the reciprocal benefits of the program. Medical student Zinaida Scutaru, who delivered 130 tutoring sessions during the previous academic year, emphasized the mutual learning experience.
“It was an enriching experience for both me and my peers,” said Scutaru. “We learned from each other, and I would have valued having this kind of guidance when I sat my own exams.”
The Ministry of Education and Research organizes the campaign with financial and logistical backing from the United Nations Development Programme, the Government of Norway, and UNICEF. Tutoring sessions will run from March through May, directly ahead of the national examination session.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
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