A group of 25 history teachers from various regions of the Republic of Moldova, including localities with Roma communities, strengthened their competencies in delivering the two‑day training course on “Roma History and Culture in the Republic of Moldova”. The activity was organised by the Council of Europe, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Research, and aligned with European standards on diversity, equality, and inclusion.

Throughout the training, teachers deepened their understanding of the history, identity, and cultural heritage of Roma communities, while practising pedagogical methods adapted to ethnocultural diversity. Participants explored how to create an open, equitable, and participatory learning environment. Many of the teachers already work with Roma pupils and welcomed the opportunity to learn basic words and expressions in the Romani language, helping them communicate more effectively and respectfully with their students. This knowledge will support them in integrating Roma‑related content sensitively and accurately into their teaching practice, contributing to a balanced and informed representation of Roma communities.

The training also provided a platform for intersectoral dialogue, where teachers exchanged experiences, challenges, and practical solutions related to working with Roma pupils.

A key component of the programme was the analysis of relevant Committee of Ministers recommendations of the Council of Europe, in particular CM/Rec(2020)2, which encourages member states to include Roma and/or Traveller history in school curricula and teaching materials. This recommendation highlights the need to eliminate school segregation, integrate Roma children into mainstream education, combat antigypsyism, and promote curricula on Roma history and culture as part of Europe’s cultural heritage.

The training emphasised the essential role of education in preventing stereotypes and prejudice, as well as the responsibility of institutions to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all learners.

A central element of the programme was the familiarisation of teachers with the national curriculum on Roma history and culture, developed by the Ministry of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova:

• Primary education (Grades I–IV) – Roma History and Culture Curriculum
• Lower secondary education (Grades V–IX) – Roma History, Culture and Traditions (RON / RU)

These resources represent a significant step toward the institutionalisation of Roma‑related education, contributing to a better understanding of diversity and to strengthening social cohesion.

Over the two days, participants discussed:

• effective ways to combat stereotypes and myths about Roma communities;
• examples of good practices in educational inclusion;
• pedagogical methods adapted to the needs of Roma pupils;
• the role of schools in preventing antigypsyism and promoting mutual respect.

The training reaffirmed that the inclusion of Roma children is in the interest of society as a whole, contributing to a fair education system and equal participation for all learners.

This training course was organised within the Council of Europe Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova 2025–2028, through the project “Enhancing diversity and equality in the Republic of Moldova – phase II”, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova.