Government invests 24 million lei to improve school transport in rural areas
Over 700 students will benefit from new school minibuses. On December 19, the Ministry of Education and Research (MEC) delivered a new batch of 23 school minibuses, valued at approximately 24 million lei, to local public authorities.
The 23 transport units, of which 21 are designated for general education institutions and 2 for sports schools, are equipped with modern safety systems, air conditioning, and multimedia technology. These features provide optimal travel conditions for students commuting to educational institutions.
"Having a modern, well-equipped means of transportation can significantly enhance a child's potential and help develop essential skills. We genuinely aim to ensure that all children who require it have access to such facilities. According to recent statistics, approximately 20,000 children, nearly 8% of our students, travel to school by bus daily, which highlights the pressing need for these investments," stated Dan Perciun, the Minister of Education and Research, during the minibus distribution event.
The minister also announced plans for the next batch, which will include 50 additional minibuses. The procurement process has already begun, with delivery expected by August 2026.
“If we work together and join our efforts, I believe we can meet all transportation needs. Besides those 50, we might consider procuring larger vehicles, as there is a demand for them. We are discussing this matter, and possibly after the New Year, we will initiate another procurement process,” added Dan Perciun.
The minibuses distributed by the Ministry of Education and Research will reach the districts of Briceni, Cahul, Călărași, Căușeni, Cimișlia, Dondușeni, Drochia, Fălești, Florești, Hâncești, Ialoveni, Soroca, and Strășeni.
Daniela Corcimari, a specialist at the Soroca Education Directorate, noted that around 1,200 students in her district commute to school daily, and requests from parents for school transportation often exceed the available capacity.
"There are gestures that, beyond their material value, open new paths and opportunities, ensuring happier lives. This donation from the Ministry of Education and Research is one such opportunity, allowing children to travel safely to better educational institutions and making the journey to a new school much more accessible. Why not make it a beautiful journey?" said Daniela Corcimari.
This initiative is part of the Ministry of Education and Research's strategy to develop the network of "Model Schools" and ensure equal educational opportunities for all children, regardless of their locality.
