On 25 June 2026, DVV International Moldova organised the first of two strategic workshops dedicated to strengthening the Adult Learning and Education (ALE) Platform in the Republic of Moldova, in partnership with the Center for Organisational Consultancy and Training (CICO). The activity was entitled „Developing the Adult Learning and Education System in the Republic of Moldova and Strengthening the ALE Platform”.
Approximately 40 representatives of public institutions, civil society organisations, academia, and adult learning providers (including current and potential new members of the ALE Platform) were brought together to discuss the future governance and sustainability of the Platform.
Building upon the outcomes of the June 2025 workshop, 'Adult Learning and Education in Moldova: From Vision to Implementation', the event marked a significant shift from identifying priorities for the ALE sector to developing concrete governance mechanisms for the platform itself. The workshop centred on establishing a shared vision for a more structured, representative, and sustainable network able to contribute to the development of adult learning policies and practices in Moldova.
The workshop was opened by Levan Kvatchadze (Regional Director for Eastern Neighbours at DVV International), Adela Scutaru-Guțu (Country Director of DVV International Moldova) and Nicolai Loghin (General Director of CICO). In their opening remarks, the speakers emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation among stakeholders, highlighting the Platform's role as a space for dialogue, advocacy, and policy development in adult learning and education.
The first thematic presentation was delivered by Prof. Dr Katarina Popović, an international expert from Serbia. She introduced participants to a broader perspective on adult learning and education. She explored the evolving role of adult learning in addressing social, economic, and demographic challenges, pointing out its contribution to lifelong empowerment, active citizenship, and sustainable development.
The workshop then continued with a presentation by Nicolai Loghin (CICO) on European experiences and good practices in organising thematic platforms and associative structures. Participants then explored different governance models, membership approaches, and coordination mechanisms that could inform the future development of the ALE Platform in Moldova.
A central component of the event was group work. Participants were divided into three working groups, each focusing on a different aspect of the Platform's development: defining its mission and strategic objectives, designing an appropriate governance structure, and establishing principles for membership, accession, and long-term functioning. Through facilitated discussions, participants formulated practical recommendations and reflected on how the platform could become a more effective cooperation mechanism for stakeholders.
During the plenary session, each working group presented its conclusions, highlighting shared priorities and identifying areas requiring further consultation. Based on these discussions, participants collectively agreed to continue the institutionalisation process of the ALE Platform.
This workshop signifies another important milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen adult learning and education in Moldova, promoting inclusive dialogue, participatory governance, and fostering stronger cooperation among all relevant stakeholders.
The outcomes of this event will serve as the foundation for the next workshop, which is scheduled for September 2026.
This event was organised within the Platform for Adult Learning and Education with the financial support of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).