Chisinau, Moldova, July 3rd,2025 — Moldova marks a historic milestone in creative and digital education: over 190 students graduate from the country’s first-ever university programs in Animation, Game Design, and Multimedia Production, launched in 2022 under the Future Professions initiative.
The event, “Graduation: Future Professions 2025”, celebrates not just the achievements of these students but also the success of a pioneering education model that bridges academia and industry. The program was developed by the COR Creative Industries Association, in partnership with Moldova State University (USM), Technical University of Moldova (UTM), and Ion Creangă Pedagogical State University (UPSC), with support from the Innovate Moldova Program, funded by USAID, the Embassy of Sweden, and the British Embassy.
Since its launch, the Future Professions program enrolled 804 students, with 190 graduates now joining Moldova’s emerging digital workforce. Throughout these three years, students developed more than 2,830 creative projects, mentored by 57 professionals from the private sector.
This program also responds to one of Moldova’s most pressing challenges: the need to retain talent and counteract brain drain. By offering high-quality, future-oriented education in creative fields at home, the program gives young Moldovans a reason to stay and build careers locally. Notably, over 70% of the teachers involved in the program came directly from the private sector, ensuring real-world relevance and strong industry alignment.
The creative sector is now recognized as a strategic economic growth area in Moldova. In 2024, the Government approved the Creative Moldova National Programme (2024–2027), aiming to harness the sector’s potential to generate employment, exports, and innovation. Moldova’s creative industries currently count over 2,800 small and medium-sized enterprises, 10,500 employees, and approximately 5,000 freelancers — a solid base for building a knowledge-driven economy.
“Innovate Moldova supports the development of creative industries as a key driver of economic growth and digital transformation. We believe in the potential of visionary young talent and are committed to building the skills and workforce needed for the jobs of the future. That is why we will continue to support the Future Professions program, contributing to the long-term growth of this vital sector,” said Sergiu Rabii, Innovate Moldova Programme Director.
This support goes beyond education reform – it reflects a strong belief in the economic and cultural value of creative professions. Fields like animation, game development, and multimedia production can significantly contribute to exports, job creation, foreign investment, and Moldova’s positioning as a regional creative hub.
The graduation event is not only a celebration, but also proof of a modern education system co-created by universities, businesses, and international organizations, designed to equip Moldova’s youth to shape the country’s digital future.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
