Libraries of three institutions from the Model Schools Network will be modernized with the support of UNDP Moldova and OTP Bank

October 4, 2024
semnare acord PNUD Moldova - OTP Bank

Three school libraries will be modernized and equipped to attract more students and teachers. The beneficiary institutions – “Mihail Ciachir” Lyceum in Ceadîr-Lunga, “Grigore Vieru” Lyceum in Briceni and “Ion Creangă” Lyceum in Fălești – are part of the Model Schools Network. The total investment is 2,000,000 MDL and aims to transform these libraries into modern multifunctional educational hubs, where students come not only for reading, but also for various interactive activities. 

The project to modernize these libraries is financed by OTP Bank and coordinated by UNDP Moldova. 

“We are delighted that OTP Bank joins our flagship partnership project to improve the quality of education in Moldova. By modernizing school libraries, we contribute to transforming them into attractive learning and interaction spaces, with modern equipment, multipurpose facilities and highly motivated and dedicated staff,” said Daniela Gasparikova, UNDP Resident Representative to the Republic of Moldova.

"We are proud to contribute to a nationwide initiative that enables children to succeed. Multifunctional libraries with digital tools will help them develop new interests and build a prosperous future. Due to our partner UNDP’s vast experience in development projects, we can offer children innovative learning spaces they will enjoy for years to come," remarked Bogdan Spuză, President of the Executive Committee - CEO of OTP Bank

The renovated spaces will be used both for study and for various educational and cultural activities. The libraries will have special areas for reading, individual study, as well as spaces designed for teamwork.

The proposed designs were presented and analyzed in public consultations with the participation of students and teachers. Their suggestions will be included in the final design of the new spaces.

The changes will be visible as soon as you step into the library – the bookshelves will be reorganized to stimulate children's interest in reading. Visitors will have access to modern digital resources, including computers and tablets, where they can access online resources, educational platforms, and various databases. Free Wi-Fi will also facilitate access to information and reading materials in digital or audio format. All facilities will be adapted to be accessible to people with disabilities – adults and children. 

The project is part of a larger initiative, supported by the European Union, UNDP, and UNICEF, entitled “Advancing quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all”. It aims to develop educational infrastructure in 10 model schools in the Republic of Moldova, contributing to the creation of centers of excellence at district level.

The Model Schools Network is a project of the Ministry of Education and Research. The authorities have chosen 35 schools, which will be redesigned to serve as a model for other schools in terms of infrastructure and teaching methods. The initiative is supported by the World Bank, the European Union, Norway, Poland, UNDP, UNICEF, and other international organizations. The project is also supported by several private companies, in the framework of the partnership “Moldova for Education”.