€51.5 Million to Modernize 20 Schools in Moldova. EIB Backs One of the Country’s Largest Investments in Educational Infrastructure

The Republic of Moldova is taking another major step toward modernizing its education system through a large-scale investment package worth €51.5 million

 Supported primarily by the European Investment Bank (EIB), the project will finance the rehabilitation and modernization of 20 educational institutions included in the national network of model schools—a strategic initiative designed to align Moldova’s education system with European standards.

The project will be implemented under a financing agreement between the Republic of Moldova and the European Investment Bank, which is set to be ratified by Parliament. The draft law has already received approval from the Parliamentary Committee on Economy, Budget and Finance and the Committee on Culture, Education, Research, Youth, Sport and Media.

A Strategic Investment in the Future of Education

The financing package combines several funding sources, highlighting the confidence of European partners in Moldova’s ongoing education reforms.

The investment structure includes:

• €40 million – loan provided by the European Investment Bank (EIB);
• €3.5 million – grant through the Neighbourhood Investment Platform (NIP);
• €8 million – contribution from the Republic of Moldova through the European Union’s Reform and Growth Facility.

Altogether, the project will mobilize €51.5 million to transform 20 educational institutions into modern, energy-efficient schools equipped to meet contemporary educational standards.

Comprehensive Modernization: From Energy Efficiency to Digitalization

The investment program goes far beyond renovating school buildings, aiming instead at a complete modernization of educational infrastructure.

The planned works include:

• thermal insulation and rehabilitation of school buildings;
• modernization of heating, ventilation and lighting systems;
• installation of modern fire safety systems;
• integration of renewable energy solutions;
• improved accessibility for students and teachers with disabilities;
• renovation of classrooms;
• modernization of laboratories with advanced equipment;
• expansion of digital infrastructure and educational technologies.

These investments are expected to reduce operational costs while creating learning environments suited to the demands of a modern, technology-driven economy.

Model Schools at the Core of Moldova’s Education Reform

The 20 schools selected for investment are part of the national network of 90 model schools established by the Ministry of Education and Research.

The model school initiative represents one of Moldova’s most ambitious structural reforms in education. These institutions are designed to become regional educational hubs, capable of serving students from neighboring communities while offering learning conditions comparable to those in European Union member states.

The initiative began in 2023 with the selection of the first 35 schools and was expanded in 2025 to include 90 institutions across all regions of the country.

Through these investments, the government aims to reduce educational disparities between urban and rural areas, improve the quality of education, and strengthen the attractiveness of the public education system.

Tax and Customs Incentives to Support Implementation

To facilitate the project’s implementation, the draft legislation provides tax and customs exemptions for goods and services required for the modernization works.

Construction materials, equipment, and related services will benefit from exemptions from VAT, excise duties, and customs fees, helping maximize the efficient use of available financial resources.

Implementation Scheduled for 2027

The Ministry of Education and Research will coordinate the project, with implementation scheduled to begin in 2027.

The modernization of these 20 schools represents one of the largest European-backed investments in Moldova’s educational infrastructure and reflects the country’s commitment to strengthening human capital, improving energy efficiency, and aligning its education system with European standards.

Education Investments as a Driver of Economic Growth

Beyond its impact on education, the project is expected to generate significant economic benefits. Construction and modernization activities will stimulate the infrastructure sector, create opportunities for companies specializing in construction, energy efficiency, and digital technologies, and contribute to local economic development.

At the same time, investment in education remains one of the most valuable long-term public investments. Modern schools equipped with advanced technologies help develop a highly skilled workforce capable of supporting a competitive economy increasingly integrated into the European market.

Through this initiative, the Republic of Moldova further strengthens its partnership with European financial institutions while reaffirming its commitment to making education a cornerstone of sustainable economic and social development.