Today, the Technical University of Moldova hosted an important conversation about the country’s future and its journey toward joining the European Union. Vice Prime Minister for European Integration, Cristina GHERASIMOV, met with students to discuss the benefits of this path and the opportunities that EU membership will bring.
Moldova is currently at a critical point in its European integration process. Authorities in Chișinău are working hard to meet the necessary requirements to begin accession negotiations, and in 2025, the government has made preparing for this pivotal step a top priority.
The meeting began with an address from the rector of UTM, Prof. Univ. Dr. Hab. Viorel BOSTAN, who encouraged students to look confidently toward the future and Moldova’s European journey. He stressed that young people are the driving force behind change and that through education, engagement, and initiative, they can play an active role in modernizing and developing Moldova in line with European values. The rector also emphasized the vital role universities play in shaping the country’s future specialists and in strengthening academic and research ties with European institutions.
Vice Prime Minister Cristina GHERASIMOV then spoke about how European integration is not just a political goal, but a strong commitment to significant reforms in areas like education, the economy, infrastructure, environmental protection, and justice. She highlighted the advantages of EU membership, including access to European funding, the modernization of the education system, the development of the job market, and an improved quality of life. She also discussed the European institutions and the core values that unite the continent.
A key topic of the meeting was the importance of European integration for young people. The students expressed strong interest in the educational and professional opportunities available through the EU. Many had already participated in academic mobility internships, while others planned to pursue master’s programs at European universities, seeing these experiences as a valuable asset for their future careers.
Cristina GHERASIMOV, pointing out UTM’s strong presence in the European academic community and its involvement in numerous international research and innovation projects, encouraged students to be active not only within the university but also in society. She urged them to contribute to promoting European values and to have confidence in Moldova’s potential to become an EU member state.
The meeting was an interactive discussion where students had the chance to voice their opinions and ask questions about Moldova’s European future and the opportunities that EU membership brings. These include study scholarships, academic exchanges, volunteering, and professional development across all EU countries. The Vice Prime Minister emphasized the crucial role young people play in this process and invited them to test their knowledge of the European Union through a quiz, awarding thematic souvenirs to three students at the end.
Mrs. GHERASIMOV also shared insights into her daily work at the Government and highlighted the influence of young people’s active participation in supporting and advancing Moldova’s European journey.
This initiative is part of a broader campaign by Moldova’s authorities to engage directly with young people, explain the EU accession process, and encourage their active involvement in shaping the country’s European future.
The dialogue between Vice Prime Minister Cristina GHERASIMOV and the UTM students reaffirmed that European integration is a process that depends on the support of young people. They will not only be the ones to benefit directly from the opportunities the EU offers but will also play an active role in building a modern and prosperous Moldova. Through such educational initiatives, young Moldovans have the chance to become more informed and involved in the country’s transformation.
European integration is a journey of continuous growth, where every student, graduate, and citizen has a crucial role to play.
