
“EU4Moldova: Local Communities” Program. Launch of Renovation Works and Equipment Donation for Leova Vocational School
As Moldova continues its path toward joining the European Union, modernizing the education system has become a key priority, especially in technical vocational education and training (TVET). This sector, long underfunded and overlooked, is essential in equipping Moldova’s youth with the necessary skills to succeed in the labor market.
At Leova Vocational School, students learn and live in challenging conditions (outdated infrastructure, a lack of modern equipment, and insufficient sanitary facilities). Additionally, the school struggles with high electricity costs, while its aging buildings no longer meet the needs of a modern educational institution.
As part of the EU4Moldova: Local Communities program, several modernization and equipment supply projects are underway in Moldova’s public TVET institutions. These projects, funded by the European Union (EU) and the Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC), are implemented by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA). One of these projects is the renovation and modernization of Leova Vocational School, which includes both infrastructure upgrades and the provision of modern equipment.
Key Investments at Leova Vocational School
The project includes significant investments to improve learning and living conditions for students and staff:

Infrastructure modernization:
- Renovation of sanitary facilities and water systems
- Roof repairs for one of the school buildings
- Installation of solar panels to improve energy efficiency
Equipment donation:
- IT equipment: interactive whiteboards, laptops, projectors, and printers
- Technical equipment: wheel alignment machine, car lift, seeder, sewing machine, and fermentation tank for wine production
Capacity development:
- Training for school administration in efficient management
- Training for teachers in digital pedagogy and innovative teaching methods
- Training for students in 21st-century skills
Systemic support for TVET:
- Development of new textbooks for five qualifications based on Occupational and Qualification Standards
- Creation of an Electronic Teacher Registry and Student Electronic Agenda on the SIME (Education Management Information System) platform for the TVET system
The total investment in infrastructure and equipment at Leova Vocational School amounts to approximately 220,000 euros, directly benefiting 300 students and teachers. This will create a modern and sustainable environment for education and vocational training, preparing students for a wide range of careers aligned with labor market demands.
Moldova’s Commitment to Modern Vocational Education
Galina Rusu, State Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova, expressed her appreciation for the successful implementation of this project by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and for the support provided to the vocational education system, particularly to the Leova Vocational School.
“Vocational education offers young people multiple opportunities to acquire the skills needed in the labor market. With modernized infrastructure, state-of-the-art equipment, and green energy sources, Leova Vocational School is making a significant step toward delivering quality programs that contribute to the sustainable development of our country,” said Galina Rusu.
EU-Moldova Partnership: A Brighter Future for Vocational Education
Adam Grodzicki, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Moldova, reaffirmed the EU’s strong support for the modernization of Leova Vocational School, emphasizing the EU’s continued commitment to Moldova’s vocational education system.
“As part of our EU4Moldova: Local Communities program, the European Union is proud to support the rehabilitation and equipment of Leova Vocational School,” said Grodzicki. “This investment is not just about renovating buildings or providing new equipment; it’s about creating real and sustainable opportunities for young people in Moldova. By equipping the school with modern infrastructure and tools, we ensure students have access to high-quality education that meets today’s labor market demands.”
Austria’s Continued Support for Vocational Education in Moldova
Stella Avallone, Austria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, reaffirmed Austria’s commitment to Moldova’s development through the EU4Moldova: Local Communities program. She highlighted the importance of ensuring proper study and living conditions for effective vocational education and emphasized Austria’s support for high-quality training and energy efficiency initiatives in Moldovan educational institutions:
“Austria’s long-term support for Leova Vocational School goes beyond today’s investment. A great example is our assistance in developing the school’s winery, equipping it with the necessary tools to train specialists in viticulture and winemaking. This contribution has enhanced the school’s capacity to offer practical, industry-relevant training. Now, with this latest support from the Austrian Development Agency, the school is even better prepared to train students in a wide range of fields—whether they aspire to become chefs, tailors, tractor drivers, auto mechanics, or agronomists. These future professionals will play a key role in Moldova’s economy and its ongoing development.”
Project Details: Modernization of Leova Vocational School
The EU4Moldova: Local Communities program is a Team Europe initiative funded by the European Union, along with the governments of Germany, Austria, and Poland, aimed at improving living conditions in the Edineț, Strășeni, and Leova districts.
This project is part of a series of three similar initiatives funded by the EU and the Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) and implemented by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA). The other two projects are being carried out at the College of Veterinary Medicine and Agricultural Economics in Brătușeni and the Vocational School in Cupcini, Edineț.
Through these initiatives, the EU4Moldova: Local Communities program is transforming vocational education in Moldova, preparing young people for a safer and more prosperous future.