Adult education and training in Moldova has evolved through various phases, shaped by post-Soviet transformation and European integration efforts. Historically, adult education was less prioritized, largely overshadowed by formal education systems. However, the post-1991 period saw the gradual recognition of lifelong learning as a key factor for economic development and social inclusion. A major milestone was the 2014 Education Code, which laid the foundation for modern adult learning initiatives, introducing principles of continuous professional development and lifelong learning.

Moldova's tradition of publicly subsidized adult education remains limited, with most initiatives relying on international aid and NGO-driven projects. Nonetheless, state support has been increasing in recent years, especially for vocational education and training (VET) and retraining programmes aimed at addressing skills gaps in the labour market.

Current policy priorities in the areas of adult education and training are outlined in the "Education 2030" Development Strategy:

• The expansion and strengthening of the process for validating professional competences acquired by adults in non-formal and informal education contexts, with a focus on ensuring their integration into the labour market and the reintegration of Moldovan migrants into the social and economic life of the country.

• Valorisation of informal education sources (media, professional associations, interest groups) for the development of both young people and adults.

• Diversifying the financing mechanisms for the adult learning and education system in both formal and non-formal contexts.

• Adult learning and education from the perspective of developing digital competences and harnessing information technologies.

• Developing the regulatory framework in the field of adult education.

Specific quantitative targets outlined in the "Education 2030" Development Strategy:

• Increasing the number of adult education service providers by 10%.

• Increasing the number of adult training programmes by 20%.

• Ensuring 100% availability of professional retraining opportunities in various fields, including education, in line with labour market demands.

• Improving the effectiveness and quality of continuous professional development internships for teachers, managers, and other educational staff, conducted in both formal and non-formal settings.

The number of recognition, validation, and certification centres for competences acquired in non-formal and informal contexts will be expanded, covering 60% of the needs in this area.

At least 3 digital skills training programmes will be developed for various target groups of adults to ensure the increase of digital literacy and the social integration of citizens.