The Technical University of Moldova adds another valuable chapter to its story of internationalization and academic excellence. Between March 31 and April 4, 2025, associate professors Dr. Neli Muntean and Dr. Ala Oberșt proudly represented UTM at the second edition of the African International Week 2025, hosted by the Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU) on the beautiful island of Crete, Greece.
Held under the theme “HEIs & Sustainable Development Goals,” the event brought together more than 50 representatives from higher education, business, and civil society from around the world. United by their commitment to a more sustainable, equitable, and inclusive future, participants engaged in a wide-ranging dialogue on how higher education institutions can contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The agenda highlighted the sharing of best practices and SDG projects, with a focus on education for sustainable development, gender equality, community engagement, reducing inequalities, responsible consumption, biodiversity protection, and the promotion of peace and social justice.
Participating in this globally significant event went beyond academic exchange—it was a transformative experience that reaffirmed the role of university professors as global thinkers, agents of change, and advocates for sustainability. By taking an active role in the thematic sessions, Dr. Neli Muntean and Dr. Ala Oberșt made meaningful contributions to the international exchange of ideas, strategies, and initiatives designed to bring real change to education and research. Their involvement also helped strengthen institutional ties between UTM and HMU and opened new doors for collaborative interdisciplinary projects with global impact.
“This international week gave us not only the opportunity to share our academic experience but also to build collaborative bridges with partners from diverse backgrounds who are committed to the same global goals,” said Dr. Neli Muntean.
“Participating in the HMU-African Universities International Week reinforced the exchange of educational best practices and offered a valuable opportunity to actively contribute to the advancement of education for sustainable development,” added Dr. Ala Oberșt.
This academic mobility proved to be a landmark event with tangible impact, demonstrating that UTM’s faculty are not only educators but global actors actively engaged in processes of social, educational, and environmental transformation. Such experiences increase the university’s ability to respond to global challenges and to train responsible professionals who are well-grounded in the realities of the modern world.
In addition to the academic sessions, the program included cultural activities such as guided tours of the HMU campus, visits to historic sites like the Palace of Knossos, and networking events—all contributing to a meaningful and inspiring intercultural experience.
For UTM professors, these mobilities are not merely professional opportunities but true academic missions—through which they actively contribute to building a more sustainable and fair world. This outstanding participation in the HMU-African International Week 2025 reinforces UTM’s image as a strategic partner in promoting the Global Goals for 2030.
Congratulations to the professors for their dedication, involvement, and for the exemplary way they represented UTM’s values and vision.
