June 27, 2025, Chișinău – Over 400 school pupils from across the country have demonstrated that change begins at school and that solutions for a sustainable future can be inspired directly from the classroom. The most ingenious initiatives submitted to the national competition “Energy Efficiency Week in My School” were awarded during a festive event held on the occasion of the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW).

“Energy intensity in Moldova is three times higher than the EU average. Therefore, if we raise awareness from an early age about the importance of energy efficiency and rational energy consumption, these practices will be more easily adopted throughout life. These contests perfectly complement the Ministry of Energy’s initiative to introduce an energy-related subject in schools,” said Carolina Novac, State Secretary at the Ministry of Energy.

The competition was organized between April 1 and May 25, 2025, by the National Center for Sustainable Energy (NCSE), in partnership with the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Moldova, with the support of the German Government and the European Union, through the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energies for Moldova (E4M) project. Now in its fourth edition, the competition provides an interactive educational framework through which pupils from all over the country are actively involved in understanding and promoting energy efficiency.

“The participation of such a large number of pupils in this competition shows us that education plays a vital role in our country’s green transition. The vision, energy, and creativity of young people are a valuable resource for the sustainable future of the Republic of Moldova. NCSE will continue to invest in energy efficiency education, together with its development partners,” said Ion Muntean, Director of the National Center for Sustainable Energy.

In this year’s competition, 44 teams of pupils registered, divided into two age categories (6–10 years and 11–16 years). Pupils carried out interactive and educational activities dedicated to responsible energy consumption and the use of renewable energy sources – from themed lessons, videos, and awareness campaigns to games and practical experiments.

In Category I, for children aged 6 to 10, the winners are:

- Cupcini Gymnasium, Edineț district;

- “Lăpușna” Theoretical High School, Hîncești district;

- Public Institution from Doroțcaia village, Dubăsari district.

In Category II, for pupils aged 11 to 16, the winners are:

- “Lucian Blaga” Theoretical High School, Chișinău;

- “Alecu Russo” Theoretical High School, Chișinău;

“Boris Ianakoglo” Theoretical High School, Copceac village, Ceadîr-Lunga district.

The winning teams received diplomas and bookstore vouchers, giving them the opportunity to purchase books and school supplies.

“The enthusiasm and innovation shown by pupils in Moldova prove that classrooms can become true catalysts for sustainability. The European Union supports Moldova’s green transition through substantial investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy. We are proud to back initiatives that empower the next generation to take action for a greener and more energy-efficient future,” stated Solomon Ioannou, Representative of the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova.

"Who says children can’t drive big change? These pupils are showing all of us how it’s done - with creativity, teamwork, and a clear message: energy matters. We’re thrilled to stand behind them as they light the way.", mentioned Ms. Claudia Hermes, Country Director GIZ Moldova

The creative contest “Energy Efficiency Week in My School,” 4th edition, was organized by the National Center for Sustainable Energy in partnership with the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Moldova, with the support of the project “Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy for Moldova (E4M).” E4M is a project implemented by GIZ in cooperation with the Government of the Republic of Moldova, financed by the Government of Germany and co-financed by the European Union, Norway, and Denmark. This activity  is funded by the European Union.