The Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi) launched the “Excellence Hub” Teachers’ Academy, an initiative dedicated to strengthening the capacity of rural educational institutions to promote modern and innovative educational models.
Although the idea of the Academy had existed for some time, its implementation became possible thanks to the support provided through the project “Beyond the Classroom: Extracurricular Experiences for the Future”. Through this Academy, iRi aims to contribute to the development of teachers’ managerial and pedagogical competencies, with a strong focus on participation, inclusion, safety, well-being, and educational performance.
The first beneficiary of the Academy is Boghiceni Gymnasium from Boghiceni village, Hincesti district, an educational institution serving 131 students. The event, held in Chisinau, brought together teachers, representatives of educational institutions, and experts in the field in an environment focused on interaction, experience sharing, and the participatory identification of solutions to the challenges faced by rural schools.
The 17 participants discussed the importance of extracurricular activities and After-School programs in supporting the holistic development of children, as well as the need to adapt schools to the current needs of students.
“The safety of every child and access to quality non-formal education should not be a privilege, but a certainty. We are committed to supporting dedicated teachers and expanding After-School initiatives so that no community, regardless of how isolated it may be, is left without development opportunities.” – Irina Baran, principal consultant at the Ministry of Education and Research.
Another topic addressed during the training was the need to modernize educational infrastructure and create child-friendly spaces for extracurricular and After-School activities.
“It is essential to transform school spaces into modern environments adapted to After-School programs, encouraging students to remain engaged in school and discover their talents. We welcome any initiative that modernizes educational facilities and encourage institutions to actively access development projects, thus providing children with European-standard learning conditions not only during classes but also afterward.” – Elena Tasca, senior methodological specialist at Hincesti Education Department.
The activity was facilitated by education expert Daniela Stati, who contributed to creating a collaborative learning environment based on reflection, cooperation, and the identification of practical solutions applicable in participating communities.
“Today, teachers have become pillars of support not only for students and parents but also for the entire community. Despite financial constraints and staff shortages, we, as teachers, strive to provide the necessary resources to contribute to raising a healthy generation.” – Daniela Stati, education expert.
The Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi) extends its gratitude to the Ministry of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova, the Hincesti Education Department, the facilitators, and the participating teachers for their openness, collaboration, and commitment to advancing modern education in rural communities.
The project “Beyond the Classroom: Extracurricular Experiences for the Future” is implemented by the Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi) within the framework of the project “BOOST: A Memorable Extracurricular Experience,” financed by the European Union and implemented by Terre des hommes Moldova Foundation, in partnership with the Alliance of NGOs Active in the Field of Child and Family Social Protection (APSCF) and Junior Achievement Moldova.
For more photos from the event, please visit the Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi) Facebook page: