Moldova doubles merit scholarships to boost education access for Roma youth
Moldova’s Ministry of Education and Research (MEC) reports that over 2,000 Roma students enrolled in schools across the country as of September 2025. This figure marks a significant increase from 1,687 students recorded in the previous year.
Authorities attribute this growth to targeted policies designed to expand educational access and lower school dropout rates among vulnerable families.
Strategic support measures for 2025
To drive participation, the MEC implemented a series of incentives in 2025, including a one-off financial grant of €51 (approx. 1,000 MDL) for students in grades 1 through 9. The initiative also provides free breakfast for these pupils and specialized information sessions for parents.
Furthermore, the Ministry expanded professional training programs for teachers working in socio-economically disadvantaged environments.
"These measures aim to increase school attendance and ensure children remain within the educational system, particularly those from vulnerable groups," the MEC stated in an official release.
Expansion of merit-based scholarships
The government has also bolstered the merit scholarship program for Roma students in high schools, vocational schools, and higher education.
Beneficiary numbers have climbed steadily from 49 students in the 2023–2024 academic cycle to 110 for the 2025–2026 school year. These scholarships, valued at €61 (approx. 1,200 MDL) monthly, are designed to support academic continuity and mitigate the risk of early school leaving.
According to the 2024 Population and Housing Census, approximately 9,300 people in the Republic of Moldova officially identify as Roma.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
