Centre for Innovation and Policies in Moldova (CIPM) is pleased to announce significant progress in the implementation of the Erasmus+ project “Preparing the Past for the Future: A VET Capacity Building Initiative for Monument and Building Restoration in the Republic of Moldova” (PPF-VET). 

This projects aims to strengthen vocational education and training (VET) by developing modernized standards for the restoration of historical buildings, a crucial step in preserving Moldova’s rich architectural heritage.

From the Republic of Moldova, the project is implemented by the Center for Innovation and Policies in Moldova (CIPM), the Chisinau Construction Excellence Center, and Vocational School No. 7 in Chisinau. At the European Union level, the partners include BK Plus Europe (Cyprus), Zespół Szkół Budownictwa Nr. 1 (Poland), and the Riga School of Art and Media (Latvia).

As part of this effort, CIPM and the consortium members have successfully developed and validated two key Occupational Standards:

• Restorer of Decorative Plasters and Mouldings (ISCED 3) – Published in the Monitorul Oficial on August 27, 2024, and officially recognized by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development.
• Building Restoration Technician (ISCED 4) – Published in the Monitorul Oficial on August 22, 2024, and approved through a collaborative effort with the Sectorial Committee in Constructions.

Furthermore, CIPM has finalized two Qualification Standards, ensuring alignment with labor market needs and educational requirements:

• Restorer of Decorative Plasters and Mouldings (ISCED 3) – Approved by the Ministry of Education and Research on January 24, 2025.
• Building Restoration Technician (ISCED 4) – Validated by the National Council for Qualifications on February 14, 2025, pending final approval from the Ministry of Education and Research.

The development process was marked by a participatory approach, with the contribution of relevant institutions, sectoral committees, and professionals in the field. As part of the project, three training sessions were organized to develop and validate qualification standards, gathering over 40 participants. Additionally, two working groups were formed, involving specialists and representatives from the construction sector to ensure the relevance and applicability of the new standards.

This milestone represents an important step in modernizing VET in Moldova, as it provides students with structured pathways to acquire specialized skills in restoration and conservation. The approved qualification standards will be officially published on the Ministry of Education’s website, marking a new era for vocational training in the heritage preservation sector.