Grigore Belostecinic,
Rector of AESM

Following the independence of 1991, the Republic of Moldova has set out on a difficult way of political, economic and social transformations. In the conditions of the market economy, viewed as a natural sequence of historical development, and the collapse of the Soviet Union, our country has eventually emerged as a new state. Thus, the development of the national economy has become a prime condition in reinforcing the state integrity and security.

Under the new conditions, there arose the necessity to establish a higher education institution that would meet the requirements of an economy in transition, and primarily train specialists qualified to operate in an evolving economic environment.

Consequently, on 25 September 1991, pursuant to Decision no. 537 of the Government of the Republic of Moldova, there was established the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova. It materialized the aspirations of many generations in the field of economic education and research who strived toward an autonomous higher education institution. It enabled the integration of higher economic education and scientific research, as well as the vertical integration of different levels of education ranging from pre-university and university to post-university.

Initially, our main objective was not only to develop specialized professionals but also build a new mentality in the spirit of freedom of thought, action, pragmatism and life efficiency.
It gives me great pleasure and honour to mention that the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova has successfully evolved in all these years. Commitment to high quality education, advanced scientific research, life-long development and ability to adapt to the society’s requirements rank AESM the largest institution of higher economic education in the Republic of Moldova. Nowadays, AESM is a modern university complex.

A special emphasis is placed on cooperation with other higher education institutions and research centres from more than 20 countries worldwide, having rich traditions in economic education and research. Our institution is a member of the European University Association (EUA), the Francophone University Association (FUA), the Black Sea Universities Network (BSUN), the Central European Initiative University Network (CEI - University Network). Relationships with our partners have promoted advanced teaching methods and modern economic principles, while the academic exchanges have enabled numerous teachers and students to carry out internships at the most prestigious foreign universities. Special importance is given to the implementation of the Bologna Declaration stipulations at AESM, emphasizing the quality of education, development of scientific research and excellence in academic administration.

Finally, I am convinced that the development of education and scientific research in the economic field would enable specialists and most of the population to promote the development of the state economic potential. The science of economics and the professional development of economists should be considered as key tools to accelerate the reforms. We need an economic science that would reflect accurately and thoroughly the realities and perspectives of our country. Furthermore, we need a closer cooperation between universities, research institutions, economic agents as well as a deeper involvement of the economic scientific community that would enhance the implementation of the reforms. Our common efforts will definitely ensure individual, and consequently overall success.

Grigore Belostecinic,
Rector of AESM