Moldova and Romania launch various student support initiatives for the new school year

As the new school year begins in Moldova and Romania, various social, political, and community initiatives are being launched to support students and families.

In Moldova, opposition deputies from the Socialist Party have proposed a 1,000 lei financial aid package for students in grades I–IX, estimating a cost of 340 million lei. While proponents argue this would reduce material barriers to education, government representatives have characterized the proposal as populist. Additionally, the Ministry of Education and Research has announced a merit scholarship program for 120 Roma students, offering 1,200 lei monthly.

In Romania, local initiatives are providing diverse forms of support. Cluj-Napoca is preparing to grant vouchers of up to 700 lei to students for sports and cultural activities. In Berchișești, the 'EDU ACCES' project will distribute fully equipped backpacks to selected children. Furthermore, the organization Ajungem MARI is recruiting volunteers to serve as role models for institutionalized children in regions like Bistrița-Năsăud and Vrancea to combat social isolation and excessive screen time.

Religious and safety authorities have also issued messages, with the Orthodox Church in Moldova offering blessings for the academic year, and emergency services in Orhei providing safety guidelines for schools.