The Faculty of Energetics and Electrical Engineering of the Technical University of Moldova (UTM) was provided with new equipment for training specialists in the field of energy. The value of the equipment amounts to US$423,000. It was donated by the European Union through the program “Addressing the impact of the energy crisis in Moldova”, which is implemented by UNDP Moldova, IPN reports.
Models of cogeneration power plants, steam generators, heat pumps and calorimeters were purchased in support of the students.
UTM rector Viorel Bostan noted that the energy sector is a key sector for Moldova. The faculty during the last two years benefited from unconditional support from the development partners. The equipment will allow improving the quality of studies. The laboratories outfitted with modern equipment will make the energy and electrical engineering sector more attractive to young people. Also, this equipment will help students to be prepared to enter the labor market upon the completion of their studies.
Dumitru Braga, dean of the Faculty of Energetics and Electrical Engineering, said the installations are very important for the practical training of specialists. They hold major interest even for graduates who studied 5-10 years ago at the UTM.
Ambassador of the European Union to Moldova Janis Mazeiks noted that the equipment can offer the necessary practical experience to future specialists. These devices, be they smart meters, energy monitors or power analyzers, provide real-time data on energy supply and help identify aspects that can lead to energy efficiency.
Minister of Energy Victor Parlicov said the Faculty of Energetics and Electrical Engineering last year saw a 25% increase in the admission rate and this shows that awareness of the importance of energy in all the fields is being raised.
UNDP Moldova Deputy Resident Representative Andrea Cuzyova believes that energy transition must be based on innovation, research and development, implicitly on the strengthening and training of specialists in this sector. The equipment of laboratories at universities is used for teaching, but also by energy specialists, and the connection between energy and academia is very important.
