Moldova’s Government approves strategic merger to create southern academic hub in Cahul
The Moldovan Government approved the integration of "Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu" State University of Cahul into the Technical University of Moldova (TUM) during its February 4 session.
This strategic merger aims to establish a robust academic center in southern Moldova capable of meeting regional economic demands. Minister of Education Dan Perciun stated the move ensures the region remains a vital intellectual hub.
Institutional autonomy and governance
The new "Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu" University Center will maintain its headquarters in Cahul. It will operate with broad autonomy, a dedicated budget, and a distinct institutional identity.
To ensure local representation, the government mandate creates a new Vice-Rector position at TUM specifically for the Cahul community. Furthermore, ten seats in the unified TUM Senate are now reserved for southern representatives.
Financial guarantees and student benefits
The government committed to an annual investment of €510,000 (approx. 10 million MDL) over the next four years. This €2.04 million (40 million MDL) total will modernize campus infrastructure and technical labs.
Students currently enrolled in Cahul will continue their programs locally under the TUM brand. Tuition fees will remain frozen at previous levels, and no fees will be charged for the 2026–2027 academic year.
Faculty stability and future growth
All faculty members will transfer to TUM by September 1, 2026. The decree prohibits any staff reductions related to the reorganization for the first three years of operations.
The merger plans to introduce high-demand technical degrees in Cahul, including IT, Engineering, and Viticulture. Despite some local opposition, officials maintain this is the most viable path for long-term regional development.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
