An event in support of high-quality studies for Roma children was mounted in Chisinau on June 1, when it is celebrated the International Children’s Day. Marin Alla, secretary general of the Coalition “Voice of the Roma”, said the demonstration is staged first of all for the Roma parents so as to motivate them to enroll their children at school, IPN reports.
According to Marin Alla, even if there is a Government decision by which the executive undertook to organize an extended program of studies for Roma children, these cannot take part in the program as this is optional and is implemented depending on the possibilities of the local public authorities. “We want the LPAs to realize the necessity of this program and to identify the necessary financial resources,” he stated.
Andreea Drangoi studies at a rural school in Cantemir district. She said she feels well at school, but is sometimes discriminated. She considers the studies are very important and each child should have access to them.
Student Dionisie Colodău said he is often insulted by mates at school. “They say I’m a crow, a Gipsy and I steal and cheat. These things are unpleasant to me,” he stated, noting the teachers behave similarly towards all the students, regardless of ethnicity. He added he has Roma friends and acquaintances who do not go to school for different reasons, but these should be ensured access to education.
According to official data provided by the organizers, the school attendance rate among Romanies in localities inhabited mainly by Roma people stands at 20%. In the settlements that have a community mediator, the percentage rose to 70%. The school abandonment rate is of 50-70%.
