President Dan stressed the importance of developing students’ critical-thinking skills in an era increasingly shaped by technology and artificial intelligence. He said access to information alone is no longer enough, urging students to question what they find online, verify information, distinguish facts from disinformation, and form opinions based on reliable sources.
Dan also emphasized the importance of well-trained, respected, and properly supported teachers. He argued that working conditions and salaries should reflect the importance of the teaching profession.
The president acknowledged that frequent changes to Romania’s education system have contributed to mistrust and frustration. He said reforms should be introduced with proper preparation, dialogue, adequate resources, and enough time for schools and teachers to adapt.
Addressing students, Dan described education as a secure investment in their future and encouraged them to remain curious, disciplined, and committed to learning. He also highlighted the importance of face-to-face interaction, noting that online activities should not replace time spent with classmates and friends.
Dan further pointed to continuing inequalities in education, including difficult learning conditions in some communities. He said Romania should work toward ensuring that every child has access to quality education regardless of their location or family’s financial circumstances.
Meanwhile, interim Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan highlighted more than €2.5 billion invested in education and school infrastructure through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, local budgets, and the national budget.
According to Bolojan, more than 90,000 classrooms and school facilities across over 4,000 schools received new furniture and equipment. More than 1,000 high schools were also equipped with smart laboratories.
The investment programme additionally supported the construction of more than 100 nurseries offering over 6,600 places for children, along with seven new dual-education campuses.
More than 1,500 schools received assistance aimed at reducing student dropout rates, while over 95,000 teachers completed digital pedagogy training to help them use new educational technologies effectively.