Research Development Strategy in the Republic of Moldova: some key elements proposed by Acad. Gheorghe Duca

Today I read Dr. Vitalie Andrievschi's article on how the development strategy of the country should be organized. From the outset, I want to mention that over the course of more than 30 years, the government and parliament have approved hundreds of national and sectoral strategies, but all of them have proven to be ineffective. These strategies have been very general, lacking measurable indicators, utopian, and, for the most part, have not taken into account the realities on the ground.

I appreciated V. Andrievschi's approach, which proposes that Moldova's global strategy should be oriented towards the movement towards the accession to the European Union and NATO (since without NATO, we will not have perspectives). I completely agree with this perspective. However, each of us, representing different sectors, must first consider how to develop appropriate sectoral strategies.

Furthermore, I would like to present my opinion regarding the elaboration of the research strategy. We need a coherent and realistic approach to strengthen this vital field. Here are some key elements that I consider essential for the research development strategy in the Republic of Moldova:

1. Clear Vision and Objectives: The strategy must have a clear vision and well-defined priorities for research development in the Republic of Moldova. These priorities should be realistic, measurable, and achievable in the short, medium, and long term.
2. Consultation and Participation: The development of the strategy should involve active consultation with the academic community, researchers, industry, civil society, and other stakeholders. We must ensure the broad participation of all relevant stakeholders to provide valuable contributions and reflect the real needs of the sector.
3. Adequate Allocation of Financial Resources: The government should allocate adequate financial resources for research and development so that the proposed objectives can be successfully achieved.
4. Focus on Applied Research and Social and Economic Relevance: The strategy should promote applied research that brings concrete solutions to the problems faced by Moldovan society and economy.
5. Promotion of Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange: Encouraging collaboration between research institutions, universities, and industry, as well as stimulating knowledge exchange at the national and international levels, can lead to more significant and innovative results.
6. Development of Research Infrastructure and Talent Attraction: Investments in modern and advanced infrastructure, as well as stimulating the attraction of talented and young researchers, can contribute to the improvement of research quality.
7. Evaluation and Monitoring of Implementation: Once the strategy is implemented, there should be an efficient mechanism for evaluating and monitoring progress to make adjustments based on the evolving situation.
8. Promotion of Research Education: Developing a research culture among young people and within the educational system can contribute to the formation of future generations of researchers and innovators.

In conclusion, the development of the research development strategy in the Republic of Moldova requires a pragmatic approach focused on the real needs of society and the economy, and its success depends on close collaboration among all involved parties. By implementing such a strategy, we can hope for sustained development and a society based on innovation and knowledge.

Acad. Prof.  Gheorghe Duca