This paper is a think piece, supported and developed by UNDP Moldova, in partnership with Cognitive Edge - an organisation that specialises in applying a complexity-lens on human systems and decision-making.

The education sector around the globe is undergoing significant transformations. The education system in five years from now will not be the same as today. There is a need to rethink the existing model of education to meet the demands of a changing world. Massive Open Online Courses, the implementation of augmented reality in learning and training, customized education programs established within corporate organizations, economic disruptions, critical instructor/faculty shortages and countless other changes are all ingredients shaping the future of education.

In Moldova, the trust in the educational system has been continuously decreasing during the past years. In 2013, according to the Public Opinion Barometer, only one-third of the Moldovan population believed that the education reforms are heading in the right direction. 

This paper is a reflection of the perception of over 1000 students from three Universities in Chisinau about the higher education system, education trends and the needs of their educational institution to prepare for the road ahead. The study includes quantitative analysis of collected data and possible correlations, an analysis of the qualitative data (the micro-stories), and the results of the sense-making sessions with students, University staff and education practitioners. The main challenges and jointly identify possible solutions are summarized in the report as well.

This study’s intention is to inform long-term policy development in the education sector, and also inspire local initiatives, either individual or group initiatives, long-term or short-term, initiated by the Ministries, Universities, teachers or even students to support the alignment of higher education to the road ahead.