CFAs: Strengthening Moldova’s Education System for the Most Disadvantaged Children

UNICEF Moldova is inviting grant applications to strengthen inclusive education for vulnerable children, including Roma and refugee communities, and those at risk of dropping out. The initiative supports Accelerated Learning Programmes, teacher training, curriculum improvement, and data-driven monitoring to ensure all children can access quality education. Grants target schools and civil society organizations across Moldova, with project implementation from March 2026 to May 2027.

The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) is seeking applications for grants aimed at improving inclusive and equitable education in Moldova. The initiative targets vulnerable groups, including Roma children, refugee families, and other children at risk of educational exclusion.

The programme promotes a human rights-based approach, ensuring every child’s right to education is respected, protected, and fulfilled.

What Is the Opportunity About?

This grant initiative focuses on improving access, quality, and inclusion in Moldova’s education system. Key objectives include:

• Providing support to children at risk of dropping out or who have missed schooling

• Piloting innovative educational approaches in multiple regions, including Raionul Strășeni and other localities with high Roma and refugee populations

• Strengthening the national education system through sustainable reforms

Priority Areas and Activities

Accelerated Learning Programme

A central component is the Accelerated Learning Programme, designed to help children who are out of school or behind in learning:

• Reintegration into formal education

• Catching up on missed content through tailored learning plans

• Applying inclusive practices that respect diversity, dignity, and participation

Strengthening Education Systems

The programme also focuses on improving curriculum frameworks and teaching methodologies to:

• Ensure inclusive and human rights-based education becomes permanent

• Address systemic barriers to access and retention

• Promote equitable learning opportunities for all children

Teacher and Authority Capacity Building

Professional development is a key component to strengthen support for vulnerable learners:

• Training for teachers and education authorities at national and local levels

• Skills enhancement to create safe, welcoming, and inclusive classrooms

• Knowledge-sharing on best practices in inclusive education

Data Collection and Monitoring

The initiative emphasizes evidence-based planning by improving data systems:

• Collecting and tracking participation of Roma children and other at-risk students

• Identifying early signs of educational exclusion

• Enabling timely and effective interventions to prevent dropouts

Who Is Eligible?

The grant opportunity is open to civil society organizations with strong experience in:

• Education and pedagogy

• Inclusion and equity initiatives

• Human rights advocacy

Eligible organizations must demonstrate capacity to implement school-based or community-based projects that deliver measurable improvements in inclusive education.

Funding Amount and Timeline

• Implementation period: March 2026 – May 2027

• Grants are intended to support sustainable and impactful interventions at school and community levels

Applicants should propose projects that are realistic, scalable, and aligned with UNICEF’s objectives in Moldova.

Why This Grant Matters

This initiative contributes to:

• Reducing educational exclusion among Roma and refugee children

• Supporting children at risk of dropping out through tailored learning programmes

• Strengthening teacher capacity and systemic reforms

• Improving national education policies to embed inclusive practices

• Ensuring no child is left behind in Moldova’s education system

How to Apply: Steps for Applicants

Applicants should submit a comprehensive project proposal including:

1. Clear objectives aligned with inclusive education goals

2. Description of target groups and regions

3. Detailed plan for Accelerated Learning Programme implementation

4. Strategy for teacher and authority capacity building

5. Monitoring and evaluation plan with measurable indicators

6. Budget justification and timeline

Proposals should emphasize sustainability, inclusiveness, and measurable impact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

• Submitting projects with vague objectives or no clear target group

• Failing to demonstrate experience in inclusive education or human rights

• Overlooking monitoring and data collection mechanisms

• Ignoring sustainability and long-term integration into the education system

• Proposing unrealistic timelines or budgets

Clear alignment with UNICEF priorities increases the likelihood of success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can apply for this grant?

Civil society organizations with experience in education, inclusion, and human rights are eligible.

Which children are prioritized?

Children from Roma communities, refugee families, and those at risk of dropping out are the main focus.

Which regions in Moldova are included?

Schools in Raionul Strășeni and other northern, central, and southern localities with high concentrations of vulnerable children.

What is the grant implementation period?

From March 2026 to May 2027.

What is the main intervention approach?

The Accelerated Learning Programme to reintegrate out-of-school or behind learners.

Is teacher training part of the programme?

Yes. Teachers and education authorities receive training to create inclusive and safe learning environments.

What role does data collection play?

Monitoring systems track participation and identify early risk of exclusion, enabling timely interventions.

Conclusion

UNICEF Moldova’s grant programme offers a targeted opportunity to improve inclusive education for vulnerable children, strengthen teacher capacity, and implement sustainable, human rights-based approaches. By supporting this initiative, applicants can contribute to long-term educational equity and social inclusion, ensuring that every child in Moldova has access to quality learning opportunities.