Moldova seeks to reconnect with its students abroad
The League of Students Originating from the Republic of Moldova has opened applications for the 2026 Gala, inviting young Moldovans abroad to submit entries by November 15 for awards recognizing academic, professional and civic achievements.
A platform for academic and professional recognition
The 14th edition of the Gala of Students Originating from the Republic of Moldova (GSORM), organised by the League of Students Originating from the Republic of Moldova (LSORM), is held under the theme "Moldova – Beyond Borders".
The event is designed to connect Moldovan students and graduates abroad with professional opportunities at home, encourage collaboration and strengthen their ties with their country of origin. The 2026 edition is scheduled for December 29, according to information published by Repatriot.
"Although they study abroad, students still want to contribute in some way to the future of the Republic of Moldova. That is why we are organising this major event, bringing together students from across the diaspora and creating a platform where they can talk, get to know one another and learn about opportunities back home. And who knows, perhaps we can persuade some of them to return," said Daniela Duca, secretary general of the organisation's executive board, during an appearance on Moldova 1's "Bună Dimineața" programme.
Nine competition categories
The 2026 edition features nine competition categories, covering academic achievement and a range of professional, artistic and civic contributions.
The Academic Excellence Competition has three categories: Bachelor's, Master's and Doctoral studies. Applicants are assessed not only on their academic results but also on extracurricular activities, projects, community involvement and their wider impact.
The special awards include "Inspiring Returns", recognising young people who have returned to Moldova and contribute to the country's development, and "After Graduation", for graduates who have built professional careers in the diaspora.
The "RePatriot" category recognises the academic achievements and civic engagement of Moldovan students studying in Romania. The "Arts" category rewards artistic accomplishments, while "Beyond Borders Ambassador" recognises young people who promote Moldova internationally through projects and community initiatives.
The "Erasmus+" category highlights international academic mobility and intercultural experience. It recognises students of Moldovan origin who have participated in Erasmus+ exchange programmes.
"We assess the CV as a whole. Of course, the experience gained during an Erasmus mobility period is important. Through this category, we want to learn about the experiences that left a lasting impression on Moldovan students while they were abroad, and how they were welcomed in different countries," Duca said.
Career opportunities and links with employers
Beyond recognising academic and professional achievements, the Gala aims to connect participants with potential employers and institutions in Moldova.
A career fair will bring together representatives of public institutions, private companies and civil society organisations. The organisers also plan to connect students with Moldovan diplomatic missions in the countries where they study, highlighting potential professional opportunities at home.
Who will be named Student of the Year?
One of the Gala's main distinctions is the "Student of the Year" award, given to the candidate with the highest overall score among applicants in the Bachelor's, Master's and Doctoral categories.
Applications will be assessed by an independent, unpaid jury comprising professionals with experience in academia, research, economics and business. Depending on the number and quality of applications, more than one winner may be selected in certain categories.
Applications are open until November 15, 2026. The Gala is scheduled for December 29, 2026.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
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