It looked into levels of satisfaction with learning quality, awareness of human and children’s rights, gender equality, student participation in decision-making and well-being.
Bringing together the views of teachers, students, public institutions and development partners, the survey is an important benchmark of the view of Moldovan education today.
Education is good
The headline result is that seven in ten students, parents, and teachers view education in Moldova positively, while confidence is even higher among school principals at 91%.
There’s also strong approval about education quality, with eight in ten students and parents saying they are satisfied with their school’s education, compared with nine in ten teachers and principals. Around 73% of respondents believe the subjects studied match students’ interests and needs – suggesting that the curriculum is reasonably well aligned with expectations.
Despite this, students do want to see future curriculum reform. The addition of health education was selected by 84% of respondents, while career guidance and human and children’s rights each received 82%, and financial education 80%. By voicing these preferences, students are indicating that they want school to prepare them for everyday life and future careers, as well as academically.
Classroom experience
The findings suggest that classroom relationships are one of the Moldovan system’s strongest assets.
Teachers’ respectful attitude was rated positively by 83% of respondents, followed by friendliness at 79%, concern for student well-being at 76%, and encouragement to express opinions at 75%.
Satisfaction with teaching methods was also fairly high, with 73% of students and parents expressing approval. Meanwhile, 68% of students said teachers explain material until they understand it – and 66% described lessons as frequently engaging and interesting.
Concerns over inclusion
However, inclusion remains a major challenge. Only 34% of respondents were satisfied with the accessibility of school transport for students with disabilities. In addition, not all institutions are fully adapted yet for children with disabilities.
A valuable picture
Taken together, the School Barometer presents education in Moldova as a system with real strengths in trust, relationships, and perceived quality, but one that still needs deeper reform in inclusion, integrity, and student support. Its value lies in showing that good policy depends on listening to the people who experience schools every day.
References
- School Barometer 2026: A first-of-its-kind evaluation of the general education system through the lens of students, parents, and teachers. Available at: https://www.undp.org/moldova/press-releases/school-barometer-2026-first-its-kind-evaluation-general-education-system-through-lens-students-parents-and-teachers (Accessed 14th April 2026).
