Prime Minister Pavel Filip, in the June 5 meeting of the Cabinet, commented on the arrest of professors suspected of involvement in corruption schemes concerning the “buying” of exams and Bachelor’s theses. He said that by such actions these persons compromise the country’s future and discredit the professionals who work honestly in the education system, IPN reports.
“I don’t consider grand corruption exists in education institutions or hospitals. There is bigger corruption that should be fought. As regards the education system, what we witnessed today is not about that bribe. Someone compromises the future of the Republic of Moldova. Education is one of the main pillars, alongside justice, and we are aware of this,” started the Premier.
He requested the Ministry of Education, Culture and Research to take the necessary measures and ensure the good organization of the Baccalaureate exams that started today and the objective assessment of students’ knowledge. “I wish success to all those who will sit the Baccalaureate exams. We know how hard this period is for the young people and it is important to offer them the possibility of showcasing their knowledge in a comfortable environment,” said Pavel Filip.
Professors of the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova (ASEM) and a number of intermediaries were arrested on suspicion that they facilitated the passing of exams, annual and Bachelor’s theses and gave grades for production practice for money. According to the National Anticorruption Center, the collected extensive evidence confirms the preliminary information. It was established that the students paid up to 1,000 lei per exam, 1,000 to 1,500 lei for the production practice grade and €400 to €550 for having their bachelor’s or master’s degree theses accepted. Consequently, the students were assessed by fictitious teachers, mainly without being physically present at the exam. About 60 teachers and other public persons of the ASEM are suspected of being involved in the exam business.
