European project management in higher education institutions in the Republic of Moldova: challenges and achievements

The management of European projects is vital for advancing higher education in the Republic of Moldova. Through active involvement in EU-funded programs like Erasmus+, Horizon 2020/Horizon Europe, and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, Moldovan universities have modernized education, internationalized research, improved governance, and strengthened academic partnerships. Key achievements include aligning curricula with European standards, establishing centers of excellence, increasing academic mobility, and joining international research consortia.However, institutions still face challenges such as limited capacity, bureaucratic hurdles, insufficient co-financing, staff turnover, and lack of expertise in preparing competitive research proposals, especially under Horizon Europe. This article examines these issues through document analysis and case studies, focusing on the State University of Moldova. It explores how European funds have been accessed and managed, highlighting their positive impact on institutional development. The article concludes by recommending systemic measures to enhance project implementation and maximize the benefits of European cooperation for Moldova's higher education sector.