Moldova launches MPay for schools: Ending illegal fundraising
Moldovan educational institutions are transitioning to an electronic donation system using the MPay platform. School administrators believe this shift will eliminate illegal fundraising from parents and assist schools in meeting their financial needs.
The MPay system allows educational institutions to receive donations for educational projects, offering a secure and efficient method to support their development while combating informal payments. Galina Vărzaru, principal of the "Mihail Koțiubinski" Theoretical Lyceum, emphasized this point, stating, "In our institution, parents do not make any payments. Contributions may come from a parent-teacher association or another independent organization. While theoretically beneficial for the institution, the practical implications remain to be seen. Before utilizing any funds, we must carefully consider their appropriate use. These funds would significantly benefit areas like legal services, which we currently lack, and essential repairs. However, the allocation will depend on the amount collected."
Olga Oglinda, principal of the "Emil Nicula" Lyceum in Mereni village, Anenii Noi district, clarified that these donations are entirely voluntary. She explained, "We are currently implementing this service. It is a crucial system for us, facilitating parental involvement in supporting our efforts in various areas, such as equipment upgrades and participation in competitions. These are voluntary contributions from parents to support the educational process transparently and without any debate. While we don't have specific allocations for particular purposes, our decisions are based on the current needs and requirements of the institution. The majority of these funds are allocated to support the educational process."
Parental opinions on this initiative are divided. Some parents support the fundraising efforts, acknowledging the need for additional support when full funding from the government is unavailable. Others believe that educational institutions should be adequately funded through the state budget. One parent expressed, "I believe that until the school can’t be fully funded from the budget, this is a viable solution. We all want our children to have better learning conditions." Another parent remarked, "This primarily concerned kindergartens and enrollment in first grade. Contributions were requested, especially for classes with extended-day programs."
According to a new government regulation, voluntary donations for schools and kindergartens must be made through the MPay service. Educational institutions will establish accounts at the treasury to enhance the transparency of these payments.
Officials from the Ministry of Education assert that any cash collection is illegal and will be reported to the National Anticorruption Center.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
