The Ministry of Education and Research and the National Youth Agency, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), have launched today the Governmental Program for the Development of Youth Centers 2030. This strategic initiative of the Ministry of Education and Research involves an annual investment of 4.5 million MDL between 2025 and 2030, aimed at expanding and modernizing the Network of Youth Centers in the Republic of Moldova. The funds will be allocated for establishing new centers, improving existing ones, diversifying activities dedicated to young people, and developing the competencies of professionals in the field.
"Through the implementation of this program, we aim to increase young people's access to educational and personal development services, improve conditions in at least 67 existing centers, and establish new centers in communities where they are currently absent. This program is not just about modernization and infrastructure; it is about giving every young person the opportunity to grow and actively participate in their community. We are committed to providing the necessary support to ensure Youth centers become true hubs for innovation, education, and civic engagement," stated Minister Dan Perciun during the launch press conference.
"UNFPA, with the support of the Swiss Government, will continue to empower young people for civic engagement and participation. We reaffirm our commitment to supporting the implementation of the Youth Centers Development Program 2030 and will invest over 1.6 million dollars by 2026. We want to ensure that these investments will support sustainable interventions that encourage young people's civic engagement and participation in developing the Republic of Moldova and its European path," said Karina Nersesyan, Resident Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
UNFPA Moldova is a strategic partner of the Ministry of Education and Research in implementing the national youth sector priorities of the Republic of Moldova. The UN agency has played a key role in developing the Youth Center Network since 2017.
"This program is based on four fundamental components, each directly impacting youth community development. First, we invest in human resource development by professionalizing youth workers and implementing effective management practices. Second, we modernize youth centers because we want every young person who steps into such a space to feel safe and motivated to grow. The third component focuses on expanding the youth center network by providing financial and logistical support to local authorities to open new centers, especially in disadvantaged rural and urban areas," said Alex Petrov, Director of the National Youth Agency.
The Youth centers in Moldova are friendly public spaces that offer young people opportunities for personal and professional development, enabling them to integrate successfully into society and contribute to community development.
Currently, the national network of youth centers includes 70 service providers for young people, supported by approximately 140 youth workers and center managers.
"In 2024 alone, over 30,000 young people have benefited from our programs. Whether it's leadership, digital skills, or creative arts, we ensure that every young person has the chance to engage in civic life, grow, and thrive. We provide a safe, modern, and inclusive environment where every young person can connect, learn, and contribute to the community," said Nonna Mihalcean, Head of the Youth and Adolescent Resource Center (CRAT) in Bălți.
The conditions for youth centers' participation in the program will be announced soon on the official website of the National Youth Agency: tineret.gov.md.
