At a time when the challenges facing agriculture require increasingly science-based solutions, the Technical University of Moldova is taking a decisive step toward strengthening applied agricultural education. At the Agricultural Research and Extension Station in Criuleni, an ambitious investment project has been launched, which involves the establishment of a modern vineyard covering an area of 4.80 hectares.
This initiative is being carried out under the “Livada Moldovei” Project, financed by the Government of the Republic of Moldova with support from the European Investment Bank and coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry.
The structure of the new vineyard is as follows:
- 0.40 ha – Pergola system (table grape varieties)
- 0.40 ha – Gable system (table grape varieties)
- 4.00 ha – industrial plantation with wine grape varieties
The platform will enable direct study of modern trellising systems, optimal planting distances, the selection of grape varieties adapted to current climate conditions, and the application of technologies suited to climate change challenges.
Accompanied by Vice-Rector for Studies, Associate Professor Vladislav Reșitca, and the Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural, Forestry, and Environmental Sciences, Associate Professor Sergiu Popa, the Rector of UTM, Professor Viorel Bostan, emphasized during the project launch that applied education is key to training the next generation of specialists.
“At UTM, we don’t just educate students; we shape them into future leaders of modern agriculture. Through this project, we are demonstrating that innovation, applied research, and infrastructure investment are the foundation of sustainable and smart farming. It is our responsibility to provide hands-on training aligned with real-world market demands.”
Under Rector Viorel Bostan’s leadership, UTM continues to strengthen its position as a forward-thinking institution that invests in the future through tangible actions and sustainable projects.
At this vineyard, students, master’s candidates, and doctoral researchers will have the opportunity to:
- apply modern cultivation techniques,
- gain insight into biological processes in real-life settings,
- conduct relevant practical research,
- contribute to innovative solutions for national horticulture and viticulture.
The platform will also encourage interaction with farmers and professionals, creating an environment that promotes knowledge exchange and the transfer of best practices into the agricultural sector.
This fall, a 12-hectare teaching orchard is planned to be planted, dedicated to pomological research and hands-on training. In addition, the following equipment will be purchased:
- support and anti-hail protection systems,
- modern irrigation installations,
- a multifunctional agricultural harvester,
- a high-performance seeder,
- equipment for the livestock sector.
The total value of the project allocated to UTM is 1.38 million USD, distributed as follows:
- 0.88 million USD – development of the crop and livestock sectors
- 0.50 million USD – investments in veterinary medicine
This investment reflects the trust that both national and international partners place in UTM’s vision of transforming agricultural education into a pillar of sustainable development.
The Criuleni project is more than just a vineyard—it is a strategic investment in people, knowledge, and the future. UTM remains committed to its mission of combining research with practice, education with innovation, and professional training with the real needs of the national economy.
