Romania implements new education aid and pension reforms

Romania is implementing several legislative and social measures regarding education and pensions. In the education sector, eligible students from low-income families can receive 500 lei for school supplies via social cards, with applications due by October 1. Scholarships for the 2026-2027 school year remain at 450 lei for merit and 300 lei for social/technological categories. Additionally, a new bill proposes mandatory school uniforms, which could include fines for schools and parents who do not comply.

Regarding pensions, the Senate has adopted a bill requiring territorial pension houses to re-examine contested files and provide a reasoned response within 45 days before legal action can be taken. Meanwhile, a legal dispute has emerged concerning retirement bonuses for education workers; while the 2023 Education Law grants a bonus of two basic salaries, newer legislation has prohibited such bonuses in the public sector, leading to potential legal challenges by unions.

Social initiatives include the donation of over 2,500 refurbished computers to schools and NGOs through the ‘Dăm Click pe România’ program, and the distribution of school supplies to 350 students by the Archdiocese of Buzău and Vrancea.