The State University of Moldova and the “Ștefan cel Mare” University of Suceava, a partnership strengthened through joint study and research programs

From February 12 to 14, 2026, a delegation from the State University of Moldova carried out an official visit to the “Ștefan cel Mare” University of Suceava, at the invitation of the Suceava university leadership, as part of a strategic effort to strengthen academic cooperation and expand joint training and research projects.

The delegation was led by the USM Rector, Prof. Univ., Dr. Igor Șarov, and included representatives from the Faculty of History and Philosophy: Lect. Univ., Dr. Igor Bercu, Dean of the Faculty, and Prof. Univ., Dr. Emil Dragnev, Director of the Department of Romanian, Universal History, and Archaeology.

A central moment of the visit was the official meeting between Rector Igor Șarov and the USV Rector, Prof. Univ., Dr. Mihai Dimian, alongside Vice-Rector Prof. Univ., Dr. Ștefan Purici. The discussions focused on expanding double-degree study programs at both undergraduate and master’s levels, as well as deepening existing academic partnerships. Emphasis was placed on curriculum harmonization, increasing academic mobility, and developing joint research projects.

Student Involvement in Evaluating Joint Programs

During the visit, 30 students enrolled in double-degree programs at undergraduate and master’s levels, who were in Suceava for their examinations, engaged in discussions with the leadership of both universities. The meeting provided an opportunity for a direct assessment of the academic path and the identification of solutions to optimize the cross-border educational experience.

The dialogue with students highlighted the importance of continuity in joint programs and their adaptation to the current requirements of the European higher education environment.

Scientific Debates: “Bukovina and Bessarabia in an International Context”

On the scientific front, the USM delegation, together with specialized academic staff, participated in the roundtable “Bukovina and Bessarabia in an International Context,” 2nd edition. The event was dedicated to exchanging best practices, curriculum harmonization, and outlining common research directions.

The debates emphasized the need to strengthen a shared academic platform capable of leveraging institutional expertise and contributing to a better understanding of the historical and geopolitical developments of the region.

Cultural-Scientific Project under National Patronage

Another important moment of the visit was the meeting with His Eminence Father Calinic, Archbishop of Suceava and Rădăuți. During the discussions, the concept for organizing a large-scale cultural-scientific event, in collaboration between the “Ștefan cel Mare” University of Suceava and the State University of Moldova – Chișinău, was finalized.

The event will receive support from the State Secretariat for Religious Affairs and the patronage of the Romanian Academy of Scientists, aiming to highlight common cultural and scientific values, as well as the relevance of Romanian-Moldovan academic cooperation in the current regional context.

The USM delegation’s visit to Suceava reconfirms the strength of the partnership between the two institutions and marks a new step toward developing integrated academic projects focused on excellence, internationalization, and the consolidation of a shared educational space between Romania and the Republic of Moldova.