With European Union and UNICEF support, the “Delia” kindergarten in Ungheni was equipped with furniture, teaching materials and cognitive toys worth a total of 310,000 lei. The kindergarten reopened after it was closed for 10 years and can accommodate 130 children from ages 2 to 7, IPN reports.
“I am very proud that the EU Focal Regions is delivering such amazing results during these challenging times. The re-opening of this kindergarten is a strong signal that the EU is investing in the future of Ungheni and of the Republic of Moldova. The EU Focal Regions program is just at the beginning and more will come soon. I would also like to thank the Republic of Poland, UNICEF, as well as the Municipality and all the other partners for making this real because together we are stronger,” said Peter Michalko, the European Union Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova.
As COVID-19 is putting at risk the futures of millions of children globally, the importance of early education should not be underestimated. Apart from education, it provides children with access to nutritious food and health support services.
“A preschool is not just about learning. The right to early education and care services should be guaranteed for all children, including those from rural areas, those belonging to marginalized groups and children with disabilities. Thanks to the generous support of the European Union, we are making an important step in that direction,” said Ilija Talev, UNICEF Country Representative a.i. in Moldova.
In a press release, UNICEF Moldova says the consequences of Covid-19 global pandemic for children, such as interrupted schooling with little learning reverberate into the future of every child who goes through them. And there are more hidden impacts – loss of future employment potential, rising violence, increased poverty, and COVID-related long-term morbidity for children who are malnourished or already vulnerable.
“For Ungheni City Hall, education is a priority area. Our children deserve and must have the best. That is why we are very happy to open a new kindergarten in Ungheni - the seventh. This would not have been possible without the support of the European Union, to whom we are very grateful. Now, another 130 children will benefit from good conditions for education, and their parents will fell they are safe,” said Alexandru Ambros, the mayor of Ungheni city.
The “Delia” Kindergarten was renovated in 2019 with the support of the Local Public Authorities and the Polish Solidarity Fund in Moldova. Additional investments needed to equip the institution were provided by EU4Moldova: Focal Regions Program, funded by the European Union.
The “EU4Moldova: Focal Regions” Program (2019-2025) supports the development of smart, inclusive and sustainable regional growth poles in Ungheni and Cahul, to bring a better quality of life and new opportunities to citizens.
The Program has a total budget of €23 million, is financed by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
